Map of England showing where the Callis arms are recorded
The Callis 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 Callis 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 Callis Family in England
The family name Callis has deep roots in the historic city of York, where records confirm members of the family were established by the year 1620. The name is generally considered to be of topographical origin, likely derived from the Middle English word "calle," which referred to a small cap or a specific type of head covering. This suggests that the earliest ancestors to carry the name may have been skilled tradespeople or merchants involved in the textile or clothing industry. During the early seventeenth century, York was a bustling center of commerce and trade, providing an ideal environment for families like the Callis clan to integrate into the local urban economy. As they settled into the city, they became part of the vibrant social fabric of Northern England, contributing to the growth and daily life of the region during a time of significant transition in British history.
Callis Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
calix
A Latin term referring to a cup, chalice, or vessel.
This name
CallisA topographic name for someone who lived near a hollow or a cup-shaped valley.
also spelled
Calles
Related arms
Callesvariant spelling
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’ Accounts, 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.
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
