How to Look at Devon’s Heraldry (Tavistock Branch)

To be held by Zoom video conferencing.

A talk by Dr David Oates: How to Look at Devon’s Heraldry

Heraldic designs and coats of arms are a common sight in our streets, churches and many other places. From pub signs to elaborate shields on tombs in cathedrals, they tell us much about the individuals, places and organisations that they represent.

Using a wide variety of examples from all over Devon, we will learn what to look out for in order to interpret this rich symbology. Heraldry has a fascinating language of its own to describe the devices. We will see how that and the associated rules work, with a little of the history of heraldry and what determines the right to bear arms.

Dr Oates has been interested in heraldry since his schooldays. Latterly he helped produce the Devon section of the “Hatchments in England” series. He speaks regularly on heraldic topics, recently including to the Heraldry Society and the Cambridge University Heraldry and Genealogy Society. He is a member of both.

To join this meeting please contact the Organiser (details below) at least 3 days beforehand to receive a Zoom link.

Please note that whilst it is hoped that the Branch will be in a position to resume meeting in the Tavistock Parish Centre, this will be dependent upon governmental guidance and it may be that our meetings will continue to take place via Zoom.

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