A CHOUGH IS...

A couple of months ago, I announced that we were in the process of a bit of a "historical excavation'', which includes trying to explain the history of the Williams family, the name and coat of arms. We learnt that the family's crest is a "Cornish chough, proper". Not that we knew what in the world a Cornish chough was. FINALLY, though, someone (Jon) has - erm, helpfully - pointed out that this is what it is: Erm, a crow? Edit: Authoritative sources (read: Pete) have just informed me that it is NOT a crow, but is, in fact, a raven, which, based on Celtic tree astrology, symbolises healing and protection. To be precise, the Cornish chough (which I still cannot pronounce) is the King of ravens.. Nice. Not only that, but in Harry Potter, Ravenclaw is for the intelligent people - those with "wit and learning fit". Who's laughing now? Heh. But seriously, uncovered this Williams family tree from the wonderful web, and while none of the names seem familiar, it does talk a little more about the crest - well, assuming its the same one... Williams Family Crest Argent a chevron sable between three cornish cloughs proper each holding in the bill an ermine spot. Translated into modern English: A Silver Shield with black chevron separating three Cornish Cloughs each with an ermine spot in its beak. Argent is Silver. It represents Peace and Sincerity. The Cornish Chough is the King of Ravens whose stratagems outwit its enemies. Now all I have to do is find a picture...