The Italian surname of DePamphilis originated with Doria Pamfili, a Spanish prince who founded the family in Italy by possession of estates in Rome. Others of this name have spelled it as DePamfili and DePampfilis.
The family coat of arms is represented by a red shield charged in base by a silver bird bearing a silver olive branch in its beak. The chief, or upper part of the shield, is blue charged with two red pales between three gold fleurs-de-lis. Red is the heraldic color for boldness, daring, fortitude, and magnanimity; blue symbolizes loyalty and truth; gold represents generosity and wealth, while silver is for purity and justice. The bird represents true magnanimity and fortitude of mind. When bearing an olive branch, it also symbolizes one who brings good tidings of hope and joy. The two red pales symbolize military strength and fortitude, while the gold fleurs-de-lis represent the emblems of the Blessed Virgin Mary which are likenesses of the waterlily, signifying purity and heavenly attributes.
The red helmet is placed above the shield. It is metallic, adorning gold and lined with red silk.
The mantling flows from the helmet and surrounds the shield. It represents the cloaks worn over the armor to protect it from the weather. Its tattered appearance signifies its being torn in combat.
AUTHORITY: "Planches de L'Armorial General", by J. B. Riestap, Lyon, France, 1887.
"Our Italian Surnames", by Joseph G. Fucilla, Evanston, IL, 1949.
Heraldic Artist: Vernon R. Nickerson, member of the New England Historic Genealogical Society, Boston, MA.