In the mid-1950s, Uncle Carl A. Niehoff responded to a heraldry research advertisement and contracted for a search for a Niehoff coat-of-arms. The work product, illustrated above, cost fifty dollars. (Not cheap in the fifties!) I had always doubted the authenticity of this heraldry, but I recently (February 11, 2001) received an unsolicited opinion from a German researcher that said, "The coat of arms shown on your website appears to be authentic."
To my knowledge, no interpretation accompanied the heraldry. However, the family (and particularly Uncle Carl) had its favorite interpretations.
A Bull Rampant - Dominant on the shield, the male bovine symbolizes Niehoff strength. Alternative (family) interpretations centered on our genetically-rooted story-telling talent.
Acorns Borne on an Oak -- Both the tree and the fruit reiterate the family's strength. Alternative (family) interpretations compare the hardness of the wood with the hardness of the head. The prolific seed is sometimes said to result from genetically high testosterone levels. (The bull as well could represent the resulting prowess; however, it is not clear from the rendering above just how well-hung the animal is.) Equally often, the acorns were interpreted as symbols of psychogenetic characteristics.
A Black Helmet -- The helmet symbolizes chivalry and a deep-rooted desire to rescue maidens. The family, however, mentions a dark side; the red eyes, passionate fire.
Return to Pat's and Walt's Roots.
Webmeister, Walt Niehoff (Enkel).