Map of England showing where the Baldon arms are recorded
The Baldon 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 Baldon 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 Baldon Family in England
The family name Baldon has deep roots in the historic city of York, where records confirm members of the family were established by 1620. During this period, York was a bustling center of trade and religious life, and families like the Baldons were often part of the growing urban middle class. The name itself likely originated as a locative surname, which means it was used to identify people who came from a specific place or village. While the exact origin of the name remains a subject of study, it is common for surnames from this era to be linked to old English place names that described the local landscape. By living in York during the early seventeenth century, the Baldon family was part of a vibrant community that witnessed significant changes in English history, including the lead-up to the English Civil War. Their presence in the city archives suggests they were settled residents who contributed to the local economy and social structure of the region.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Baldwin
Derived from Germanic elements meaning bold or brave friend.
This name
BaldonA locational or patronymic surname originating from the Old English personal name Baldwin.
also spelled
Baldin
Baldon
Balldin
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' Account Rolls, 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.
cross symbolChristian faith and service
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
cross symbolChristian faith and service
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
