Jenkins
Family Origins
|
|
Arms: Per pale azure
and sable, three fleur-de-lis or; Crest: A battle axe, handled or, headed
proper; Motto: “Perge sed caute.” Writers of the past have
attributed symbolism to the tinctures and charges of heraldry - thus, azure
(blue) is said to denote Loyalty, sable (black) denotes Wisdom, and or
(gold) denotes Generosity. The motto may be translated as “Go forward, but
cautiously.” As with all very old
families, it is impossible to trace the countless branches that become
established over the centuries. However, these arms are typical of those
early designs with which warriors decorated their shields to identify
themselves in battle. The fleur-de-lis has since ancient times been the
emblem of France, and often suggests a connection with that country. It is
probable that the progenitor of the family in Britain came during the Norman
invasion in 1066. The surname Jenkins
is an old family name that is frequently found in Wales, as well as England.
One reference states that the family is of Flemish origin, originally being
known as “Jonkin,” meaning “Son of John,” the name “John” being derived from
the Old French “Johan.” The earliest-found
mention of this family dates back to 1288, where the name “Jonkin” is listed
on the Assize rolls of Cheshire. Other early records mention Richard Jenekyn
in the Sussex Subsidy Rolls of 1296, but by the early fourteenth century the
name appears as “Jenkins,” for a Richard Jenkins is listed on the Subsidy
Rolls of Somerser for the year 1327. History pays just tribute
to the many persons bearing this old distinguished family name who attained
distinction during the past thousand years, for many descendants of this
family have occupied the highest positions in England, as well as Wales. Many
outstanding statesmen came from its ranks, and public service is a family
virtue. John Jenkins (1592-1678)
was the earliest-known English composer of instrumental music. But the first
person bearing the Jenkins family name to settle in the New World was yet
another John Jenkins, who came to America from Wales in 1642 and settled in
Virginia. He was a colonel in the State Militia and held several public
offices. He later became the Governor of North Carolina. Once genealogist
regards him as the progenitor of the Jenkins family in the United States. Today, persons bearing
this proud old family name are to be found in almost every section of the
country, and they are well represented in the arts, sciences, and
professions, as well as in the world of commerce. To those seeking more
detailed information, the following reference may prove helpful and interesting: “Burke’s General Armory,”
published by Harrision & Sons, London, 1884 “Fairbaim’s Book of
Crests of Great Britain Ireland,” published by T.C. & E.C. Jack, London,
1905 Based on information from Morris Bros., deVillers & Co, Inc. 254 West 34th Street, New York, New York. |
|
|