Map of England showing where the Clissold arms are recorded
The Clissold 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 Clissold 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 Clissold Family in England
The name Clissold is believed to have originated as a locational surname, likely derived from a specific place or landscape feature in England. By the early 17th century, the family had established a clear presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Clissold family were living and working within this northern hub during a time of significant social and economic change. As the family settled in the region, they likely integrated into the local trade and civic life of the city. Over the following generations, the name spread from these northern roots to other parts of the country, though the early connection to York remains a defining point in their documented history.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Chlodowig
Derived from Germanic elements meaning famous in battle or glorious warrior.
This name
ClissoldA locational surname originating from a lost place, likely meaning a famous warrior's clearing or valley.
also spelled
Clisold
Clissold
Clisall
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' Account Rolls, 1620
Reaney, P.H., 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.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
