Coats of Arms originated in the middle ages as a means of distinguishing friend from foe on the medieval battlefield and later for jousts and tournaments. By the 16th century Arms became part of the décor used above doors, mantles, in stained glass, and family seals for identification purposes. Combining of arms through marriage also became popular.
An achievement of arms is a display or depiction of authorized armorial bearings, such as the elements of a coat of arms, colors and personal badges and flags, mottoes etc
The shield was often displayed with a helm on top. The helm was displayed with the mantling, the crest and if the bearer was nobility then the helm also had a crown, if not then a wreath. Altogether this display is known as an "achievement of arms".
Even though a Coat of arms was not awarded to a family or a name, but to an individual. And often you will find more than one coat of arms associated with a given surname. In general, direct descent is required for any heir to have the legal right to bear his ancestor's coat of arms.
Some take much pride in their family name and seem to adopt these ancient symbols of honour, and attach them directly to that surname. A decoration in pride for an ancestor bearing the same name.
