SOUTHAMPTON
Origin/meaning :
The arms were granted on 4 August 1575. The original grant actually refers to the addition of supporters to the 'ancient' arms of Southampton. The arms are believed to date to the 13th century. The red and white roses are linked with the Royal houses of Lancaster and York. Henry, Duke of Lancaster, his son in law John of Gaunt and John's younger brother, Edmond, Duke of York, were all involved in expeditions which set out from Southampton. It is thus likely that the Princes granted the roses to the city.
The complicated armorial bearings show two small lion supporters, probably representing the English lion, standing each on a warship, indicating the importance of Southampton as a harbour and naval city. The whole is placed on a compartment of water and a grassy mound.
The crest shows a tower, symbolising the fortress and from the crests rises the figure of Lady Justice, symbol of justice.
Literature : image send to me by mail. Information from a leaflet provided by the Southampton City Archives.
coats of arms on-line ! 
