American Armigers

[davidlpope]

Mark,

After pondering this subject for many years, I think personal heraldry in America is an interesting, though outdated, personal affectation. Sort of like wearing a pocket watch.

Heraldry in the US doesn't indicate achieving a particular level within society, as anyone can assume arms. In the best cases, such assumed arms are beautiful, heraldically correct works of art. In many cases, though, they are abominations.

I registered with the Armorial Register, as I figured that would be the best way to stake my claim against usurpation. If I was inclined to seek another registration I'd go with South Africa, as I think their government less likely to close up shop than the private American registries.

I think the best path, and the truly American one, is to simply use your arms: on bookplates, stationary, library paintings, etc. That's the sort of thing we look to when determining the historical existence of American arms. Arms that are not used are really just pretend, in my opinion.