Map of England showing where the Alsworth arms are recorded
The Alsworth 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 Alsworth 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 Alsworth Family in England
The family name Alsworth likely originated as a locational surname in England, derived from the Old English words for a specific plot of land or a settlement. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the family were established in the historic city of York. During this period, York served as a vital center for trade and religious life in Northern England. Families living in the city at that time often worked as skilled tradespeople or merchants who contributed to the local economy. As the Alsworth family grew, they became part of the social fabric of the region, navigating the significant political and cultural shifts that defined seventeenth-century England. Their presence in such a prominent city suggests they were settled members of the community who played a role in the daily life of the North.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Aethelweard
Old English elements meaning noble and guardian or protector.
This name
AlsworthDerived from a place name meaning the enclosure or estate belonging to Aethelweard.
also spelled
Alsworthey
Alswurthy
Alsworthe
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
trefoilPerpetuity, and the Trinity
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
trefoilPerpetuity, and the Trinity
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
