Quote Originally Posted by SlackerDrummer View Post
A quick point of clarification: To the best of my knowledge the South African Bureau of Heraldry does not grant arms; they register them. That said, it is an official government registration, as opposed to a registration with a private entity, but it is nonetheless a registration.
SD, quite right. I thought that is what I said on the first line?? I hope I didn't misspeak in my post.

hkjrb623, I know you my read Cyngus response and feel a bit dubious; however, its very true. I also thought that families had arms....went so far at to purchase my first surname coat of arms items years ago in Georgia for $30..which was a lot back then for a bit of paper. However, those arms belong to one person. Arms are property of an individual that can be passed down to his heirs, and even then only the oldest son (in English, Irish, and Scottish tradition) receive the exact arms after the armiger dies. All the rest of the kids can get the arms matriculated with some difference to show they weren't the oldest.

Cygus, thank you for answering that question regarding family arms. Rath is quite right though on the use of arms whilst visiting. (I have the email from the Lyon's office for proof) So in 2014 I am quite safe to got the Gathering at Stirling and use my arms whether it be in a cap badge or flag or stationary etc. However, according to the Lyon's office: if a person is staying in Scotland for more than 180 days, going to Scotland on a regular basis (several times a year), or purchases property in Scotland and will be using their arms then is must be registered with the Lyon.

Scott, always the sage one! Thanks.