Russell Family Crest beer glass – linked to the Duke of Bedford

Here’s a proper gift for anyone called Russell who enjoys a beer! The Russell Family Crest on a sturdy 16oz pint glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

The Symbolism of the Russell coat of arms

The Russell surname was firmly established in England immediately after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The founding ancestor, Hugh de Rosel (originally from the lordship of Rosel in Cotentin, Normandy), is officially recorded in William the Conqueror’s Domesday Book of 1086 as holding hereditary feudal estates directly from the King in Dorset. The ancient seat of this Anglo-Norman family was at Kingston Russell in Dorsetshire. Historical records show that around 1224 (8 Henry III), Sir Ralph Russell was officially granted custody of his wife’s extensive baronial lands. In the oldest feudal records of Dorset and Gloucestershire, this original line of "Rossells" is explicitly documented as bearing the red lion rampant (Argent, a lion rampant gules).

This particular version of the Russell family crest is linked to the Dukes of Bedford, who added a goat. According to one source, the goat was chosen "to demonstrate martial perseverance, agility, and the relentless drive to climb to the highest peaks of success."

Three scallop shells, known as "pilgrim shells" represent ancestors who undertook the sacred crusades or pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela.

The Motto is the now world-famous maxim, "Che sara sara" (What will be, will be). First adopted by John Russell, the 1st Earl of Bedford, in the 16th century, it remains a timeless testament to facing destiny with ultimate confidence and composure.

Artist's note: I was intrigued to learn that medieval pilgrims collected sea shells from the beaches of Galicia to prove they had reached the western edge of Christendom.

About the artist

Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful and uniquely personal gifts for any occasion with family and friends.

Product details:
• Glass material
• Volume: 16 oz (473 ml)
• Not dishwasher or microwave recommended – hand wash only.

Size guide