Heraldry

Many of our most significant American symbols can be found on the Great Seal – the bald eagle, the star, the colors of red, white and blue, etc.

The Great Seal is sometimes referred to as the United States Coat of Arms. The term “coat of arms” originated from the fact that knights would use embroidered fabric (a “coat”) to cover their armor. The design on the shield was called the “shield of arms.” Often this design (or part of it) was used on the seal of a knight or household. The seal was used to authenticate documents that were carried by heralds (messengers), and this is the basis of the word “heraldry” which has come to encompass all aspects of the design. As a field of study, heraldy examines the history, design, symbolism, and associated ancestry of armorial bearings.

William Barton, who is typically credited with the final design of the Great Seal, was a young Pennsylvania lawyer who had formally studied heraldy in England.  Not only was Barton a gifted artist, but he also understood the complex field of heraldy and the need to ensure that the meaning of the colors, symbols and overall design of the Great Seal properly represented the U.S.

In 1788 Barton wrote a letter to General George Washington demonstrating his high view of heraldy:

“I am likewise persuaded, Sir, that Blazonry not only merits the notice of an inquisitive mind, viewed merely as an affectative science; but that Coat-Armour, the Object of it, may be rendered conducive to both public and private uses, of considerable importance, in this infant nation, now rising into greatness; and I trust that your Excellency, to whom every true American looks up, as the guardian of your Country and patron of its increasing glory, will concur with me in the sentiment, that every institution which may assist in promoting the great cares of Government, is worthy of public attention.” — William Barton, Pennsylvania Historical Association Pennsylvania History, Vol. XII, 3 (July, 1945). Letter to General Washington dated August 28, 1788.

In summary, we can be sure that the colors, symbols and design on the Great Seal were selected with great care.

This page was created by:

Back to main July 4th Symbols page.

We welcome your ideas! If you have suggestions on how to improve this page, please contact us.

You may freely use this content if you cite the source and/or link back to this page.