Map of England showing where the Ardis arms are recorded
The Ardis 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 Ardis 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 Ardis Family in England
The Ardis family name has roots that trace back to the historic city of York in Northern England during the early seventeenth century. By 1620, records indicate that members of the family were established residents within this region, which was a major hub for trade and religious life at the time. The name itself is thought to be a variation of older occupational or locational surnames that evolved as families moved between villages and towns. During this period, the Ardis family would have experienced the significant social shifts of the Stuart era, including the expansion of local industries and the influence of the nearby York Minster. As the family grew, they became part of the local fabric of Northern England, eventually spreading to other parts of the British Isles and beyond as generations sought new opportunities.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
arduus
Latin term meaning steep, high, or difficult to climb.
This name
ArdisA topographical name for someone who lived on or near a steep hill or high place.
also spelled
Ardis
Related arms
Ardesvariant spelling
Ardysvariant spelling
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
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1620
Reaney, Percy Hide, A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
