Map of England showing where the Aldridge arms are recorded
The Aldridge arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Aldridge arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Aldridge Family in England
The surname Aldridge is rooted in Old English, originating from the personal name Ealdric, which translates to "old ruler." Over many centuries, this name evolved through various spellings as it was passed down through generations in England. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Aldridge family were living and working within this northern hub during a period of significant social change. As the family grew, they integrated into the local community, contributing to the trade and civic life of the region. Their history reflects the broader movement of English families who transitioned from using single names to permanent surnames that identified their lineage and heritage for future generations.
Aldridge Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Ealdric
Old Germanic elements meaning old or noble and ruler.
This name
AldridgeDerived from the Old English personal name Ealdric, signifying an old or wise ruler.
also spelled
Aldredge
Aldrydge
Aldrige
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Records: Probate Records and Parish Registers, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
wheatsheafPlenty, and the harvest of one's own labour
crownSovereignty, authority and just reward
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
leafHappiness and abundance
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
wheatsheafPlenty, and the harvest of one's own labour
crownSovereignty, authority and just reward
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
leafHappiness and abundance
