Introduction To Heraldry For Genealogists

Heraldry is an ancient and compelling visual expression of personal and family identity. Heraldry can also be a useful lens through which to view or research family history.

In this three-week course, you will gain a systematic historical, visual, and textual introduction to heraldry and a coat of arms; a familiarity with the most important types of heraldic art, artifacts, and evidence coming from different heraldic traditions; and specific research tools and methods for evaluating heraldic evidence in the context of family history.

Instructors Joseph McMillan and Nathaniel Taylor are members of the Committee on Heraldry of NEHGS, a group of specialist staff and volunteers concerned with the study of heraldry since 1864.

This course includes three 90-minute classes; exclusive access to handouts and recordings of each presentation; and in-depth Q&A sessions with the instructors. This program will be hosted via Zoom. Access information will be sent to participants prior to the first broadcast.