Map of England showing where the Bracale arms are recorded
The Bracale 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 Bracale 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 Bracale Family in England
The Bracale family name carries a history deeply rooted in the movement of people across Europe during the seventeenth century. While the name is often associated with Mediterranean origins, historical records confirm that members of the family were established in the city of York by 1620. During this period, York served as a vital northern hub for trade and craftsmanship, attracting families who sought new opportunities in England’s growing urban centers. The presence of the Bracale name in such a prominent historical city suggests that these early ancestors were likely integrated into the local merchant or artisan classes. By settling in York, they became part of the city's diverse social fabric, contributing to the local economy and community life during a time of significant cultural change in England.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
braca
Latin term for breeches or trousers worn by ancient Celtic tribes.
This name
BracaleAn occupational surname for a maker or seller of breeches or specialized leg coverings.
also spelled
Brackly
Brackleigh
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
City of York Archives, York Freemen’s Register
Palliser, D. M., Tudor York, 1979
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chequyConstancy, and the counting-board
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
chequyConstancy, and the counting-board
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
