Scottish heraldic flavor

[davidlpope]

May I ask in general, in this day and age, what purpose is there in ordinary individuals getting their own coat of arms ?

Might I suggest you do a little research on this. The Heraldry Society of Scotland website would be a great place to start.

Been there, done that, didn't get an answer. You boys can do better than that, answer the question.

I don't have arms, but I've thought about it quite a bit and I'd like to. Here's why:

1. I'm really an history-junkie at heart. I like flintlock rifles, Old English poetry, and theological debates that started in the 16th century. Matriculating arms would be a tangible connection to a historic system that originated over 900 years ago. To me that is exceedingly "cool". Sort of like wearing a kilt.

2. I'm a big believer in symbols. My Marine officer's sword is a tangible, though outdated (I guess one could argue useless or silly), tie to a warrior ethos that I have inherited and been a part of. Likewise, a grant of arms would be another symbolic tie to a past culture that I have a connection to. Sort of like wearing a kilt.

3. I like things that are passed down in families. I sleep on a metal bedframe that my great-grandfather slept in. I store handsewn quilts made by my great-aunt made in a cedar chest that my grandfather built in high school. I quail hunt with a Browning shotgun that my paternal uncle (too early dead) grew up shooting beside my father. Arms would be something that could originate with me that could be passed down to future generations. Sort of like well-made kilts.

Perhaps not convincing, perhaps very different than the value someone else would put on such things. Just my thoughts on the matter.

Cordially,

David