Armitage family crest and coat of arms

The early history of the family name Armitage is a fascinating tale that spans centuries and is deeply rooted in the British Isles. While the exact origins of the name are uncertain, it is believed to have originated in the Yorkshire region of England.

The earliest recorded mention of the name Armitage dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, a survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror. The book lists an Armitage as a landowner in the village of Farnley, Yorkshire. This suggests that the family had already established themselves as prominent members of the local community by this time.

Throughout the medieval period, the Armitage family continued to flourish in Yorkshire. They were known for their involvement in various industries, including agriculture, textiles, and mining. The family's wealth and influence grew, and they became respected members of the local gentry.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, the Armitage family expanded their landholdings and acquired additional properties in the surrounding areas. They were known for their patronage of the arts and their support of local churches and charitable organizations.

In the 16th century, the Armitage family faced challenges as religious tensions swept across England. The Protestant Reformation led to the dissolution of monasteries and the redistribution of land. Despite these challenges, the Armitage family managed to retain their wealth and status.

The Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries brought significant changes to the Armitage family and the surrounding region. The family embraced the advancements in technology and played a role in the development of the textile industry in Yorkshire. They established mills and factories, creating employment opportunities for the local population.

The Armitage family's involvement in the textile industry brought them great prosperity, and they became known as successful industrialists. Their wealth allowed them to invest in various ventures, including railways and mining operations.

As the 20th century dawned, the Armitage family's influence began to wane. The decline of the textile industry and changing social dynamics led to a shift in the family's fortunes. However, their legacy as prominent members of the Yorkshire community remains.

Today, the name Armitage is still associated with the Yorkshire region, and many individuals with this surname can trace their ancestry back to the early days of the family's history. The Armitage name continues to be a reminder of the family's enduring legacy and their contributions to the local community

The early history of the family name Armitage in America dates back to the colonial era. While not the first settlers with this name, they were among the early pioneers who arrived in the New World seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.

One of the first Armitage families to settle in America made their home in the northeastern region, particularly in the states of Massachusetts and Connecticut. They were part of the wave of English immigrants who arrived in the early 17th century, seeking religious freedom and economic prosperity.

As the years went by, the Armitage name spread across the country as families migrated westward. They became farmers, merchants, and tradesmen, contributing to the growth and development of their communities. The Armitages were known for their hard work, resilience, and strong family values.

Over time, the Armitage name became more established in America, with subsequent generations continuing to build upon the foundations laid by their ancestors. They played their part in shaping the nation's history, participating in events such as the American Revolution and the Civil War.

Today, the Armitage name can be found throughout the United States, with descendants of those early settlers continuing to carry on the family legacy. While the meaning and origin of the name may be of interest, the focus here is on the early history of the Armitage family in America and their contributions to the nation's growth and development.

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

The family name Armitage has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Armistead, which is believed to have originated from the same root as Armitage. Another variation is Armitstead, which is similar in sound and spelling to Armitage but with a slight difference. Additionally, some individuals with the Armitage surname may have adopted the variation Armitt, which is a shorter and more concise version of the name. Another possible variation is Armit, which is even shorter and may have been derived from Armitage. These variations of the family name Armitage demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over generations. It is interesting to see how slight changes in spelling or pronunciation can result in different variations of the same name. These variations add to the richness and diversity of the Armitage family name and its history.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com