Map of England showing where the Brodhead arms are recorded
The Brodhead 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 Brodhead 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 Brodhead Family in England
The Brodhead family name originates from the northern regions of England, with historical records placing early members in the city of York as early as 1620. The name itself is topographical, meaning it likely described a person who lived near a broad headland or a wide stretch of elevated terrain. During the seventeenth century, the family was part of a period of significant social and religious change in Yorkshire. Many individuals with this surname were involved in the local trade and civic life of York before some members eventually sought new opportunities across the Atlantic. By settling in the American colonies, these early ancestors helped establish the family name in a new environment while maintaining the traditions and naming conventions brought from their English roots.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Brad-heafod
Old English words for broad and head or headland.
This name
BrodheadRefers to someone who lived near a wide hill, promontory, or prominent geographical headland.
also spelled
Brodhead
Broadhed
Brodhed
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
Smith, Frank, A Genealogical Gazetteer of England, 1968
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
The National Archives, State Papers Domestic, James I
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
cinquefoilHope and joy
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
cinquefoilHope and joy
