Map of England showing where the Basden arms are recorded
The Basden arms were recorded in Bosden, 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 Basden 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 Basden Family in England
The surname Basden is rooted in the landscape of medieval England, likely originating as a topographical name for people who lived near a specific valley or wooded area. By the early seventeenth century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Basden family were active participants in the social and economic life of this northern hub during a period of significant transition in English history. As the family settled into urban life, they contributed to the local community through trade and civic engagement. This early residency in York suggests that the family was well-integrated into the regional networks of the time, helping to preserve the name as it moved through generations of English life.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Bast
A diminutive form of the name Sebastian or related to bast fiber.
This name
BasdenDerived from a valley or woodland clearing associated with a person named Bast.
also spelled
Bosdon
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.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
