Swedish Arms
HÄRJEDALEN
Origin/meaning :
The arms of Härjedalen is one of the newer arms of the Landscapes, as Härjedalen only became part of Sweden in 1635. The composition first appears on a seal dating from 1647, but it is not known when the seal was made. It is not known when the composition was first used as arms. It is assumed that this occurred at the end of the 18th century. The colours are first seen in a roll of arms dating from 1870. The arms were first officially described in 1885.
It is not known what the three subjects actually mean, it can not clearly be derived from the oldest seal. The most right figure shows some tongs. They are described as such at present. The middle figure has been described as a hammer seen from above. The two other figures on the left are also described as hammers. There has been much discussion whether such a tool was actually used in the area at the time the seal was made. This has not yet been conclusive. All tools are used in iron forging, making the arms symbolise the iron industry in the area.
Literature : Nevéus and de Waern, Ny Svensk Vapenbok, 1992.
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