The Single Eagle Feather

[Kilted Cole]

Okay...one....would any bird of prey be appropriate? Example Owl featheres.... Also, how does one find out or get awarded a coat of arms...I'm in the SCA and have an approved COA OBVIOUSLY NOT recognised by Lyon, and well...its make believe. My point is I'm with the OP on accademically knowing more about these things. I come from farming stock so I know more than likely I would never be able to have a real coat of arms. I'm just curious.

[EagleJCS]

I come from farming stock so I know more than likely I would never be able to have a real coat of arms. I'm just curious.

And why not? Are you an honorable person? Respected by your peers and community? Then, you would more than likely be granted a COA if you can provide the proper documentation to Lyon (some familial connection to Scotland), if you choose to go that route. It would very likely be different from your SCA COA but could possibly contain elements (base color, primary charge, etc.).

Don't know about feathers from other birds of prey, but I believe you can put whatever you wish on your bonnet for decoration if you so choose. I might not put the whole feather if it's of a size with the typical eagle feather, but maybe just the last 3-4 inches.

[WVHighlander]

Also, there is the option of South Africa for a COA if you are unable to accomplish it through the Lord Lyon. As for decorating your bonnet, you can do it with any feathers you like...with the eagle feather (faus feather or not) denoting an armiger.

[Kilted Cole]

I'd probably go with a Turkey feather given a chance .... lol....but thats if I was afforded a COA.
Oh and as far as those who are curious.....my SCA COA...not high detail, but...you get the idea. two wolf heads facing away from each other....and a snowflake at the base....though in the SCA its an escarbuncle or some such thing.

[Kilted Cole]

But now you actually have me interested in applying for a CoA. how would I go about starting that process...I can trace my moms dads side to Scotland Berwickshire circa 1761 is that a start?
WOW! now I know why not every one has one...these things are $$$$$$$$ pricey!
http://www.lyon-court.com/lordlyon/232.html

[SlackerDrummer]

But now you actually have me interested in applying for a CoA. how would I go about starting that process...I can trace my moms dads side to Scotland Berwickshire circa 1761 is that a start?
WOW! now I know why not every one has one...these things are $$$$$$$$ pricey!
http://www.lyon-court.com/lordlyon/232.html

If you want a coat of arms from Lord Lyon, you need to prove male-line decent to someone in Scotland or lands held by the British Empire (e.g. the American colonies prior to 1776). Mom's dad's family doesn't count since arms descend patrilineally in the Scottish tradition. If you believe that the best way to obtain arms is through a grant, I'd recommend being true to the traditions of the countries who maintain granting authorities and stick with your Y-chromosome. In other words if your dad's dad's line (on back) is from Scotland, go to Lyon. If they're from Ireland, go to the Chief Herald of Ireland. If they're from England, go to the College of Arms. Otherwise, I don't see the point in seeking a grant. If your mom's dad had Scottish arms, you wouldn't inherit those arms anyway.

[Kilted Cole]

Dang...oh well...not a big deal.

[EagleJCS]

If you want a coat of arms from Lord Lyon, you need to prove male-line decent to someone in Scotland or lands held by the British Empire (e.g. the American colonies prior to 1776).

Kenneth, I've been told the date to shoot for is prior to September 3, 1783 (the date the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Revolutionary War). Before that date, the residents of the colonies were still considered subjects of the Crown.