The Byrd Family Crest

Colonel William Byrd, the first of his name and family in Virginia, son of John Byrd, of London [of the old family of Broxton, Co. Chester, dating tempo. Richard II.], was born in 1652, and came to Virginia a youth, as the legatee of his maternal uncle, Captain Thomas Stegge, merchant, landed proprietor and member of the Council. He patented large tracts of land, including the present site of the City of Richmond, and settled himself on his fine estate of Westover. His son, William Byrd of Westover, was well known as a writer, a philanthropist, and an active public man. He founded the City of Richmond, Major William Mayo being associated with him in that enterprise (1737). We have copied exactly his bookplate in our possession, leaving off the quarterings.

Family

Byrd

Motto

Nulla pallescere culpa.To turn pale at no crime.

Blazon

A Bird, Rising, Gules.

Source

America Hereldica