Merkendorf (Mittelfranken)

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MERKENDORF

State : Bayern
District (Kreis) : Ansbach (until 1973 Gunzenhausen)
Additions : 1971 Heglau; 1972 Gerbersdorf; 1978 Großbreitenbronn, Hirschlach

Official blazon

In Silber ein durchgehendes rotes Andreaskreuz, überdeckt mit einem gesenkten schwarzen Anker.

Origin/meaning

The oldest seal of the town dates from the late 15^th century and shows a cross with the letter M. The cross is derived from the arms of the Counts of Oettingen, who ruled the town at the time. The M was the town's initial. This composition was used on seals and as arms until the late 18^th century.
Since the 19^th century the town uses an anchor, which is, erroneously, based on a local legend.

Hupp showed in the 1920s the same elements, but in a different composition and colours, see below.