Map of England showing where the Blackaller arms are recorded
The Blackaller arms were recorded in London, c. 1620.
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 Blackaller 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 Blackaller Family in England
The surname Blackaller is a locative name, which means it likely originated from a specific place or geographical feature where the earliest family members resided. Linguistic experts suggest the name is derived from Old English roots, potentially referring to a dark or shadowed alder tree grove. By the early seventeenth century, members of the family were well-established in London, as evidenced by records from 1620. During this period, the family was part of the growing urban population of England’s capital, living through a time of significant social and economic change. While the name remained relatively rare, the presence of Blackallers in London suggests they were integrated into the city’s trade and civic life during the reign of King James I. Their history reflects the broader movement of families from rural areas into the bustling center of English commerce and politics.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Blaec-aldor
Old English words for dark or black and elder or chief.
This name
BlackallerA topographical or descriptive name referring to a dark-complexioned elder or leader.
also spelled
Blacklar
Blacklor
Blacklyer
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. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
The National Archives, Prerogative Court of Canterbury and Related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
