Map of England showing where the Congdon arms are recorded
The Congdon arms were recorded in York, c. 1627.
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.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in England when the Congdon 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 York.
Origin & History of the Congdon Family in England
The surname Congdon is believed to have originated in the southwestern region of England, specifically within the county of Cornwall. The name is locative, meaning it was likely taken from a specific place or farmstead known as Congdon. By the early 17th century, the family had established a presence in other parts of England, including York, where records confirm members of the family were living by 1627. During this period, the Congdons were typically associated with the yeoman class, consisting of independent farmers and skilled tradespeople who played a vital role in the local economy. As the family grew, their members moved across the country to seek new opportunities in agriculture and commerce, eventually carrying the name across the Atlantic to the American colonies.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Cunegund
Derived from the Germanic elements for war and battle.
This name
CongdonA patronymic surname meaning son of the person named Cunegund.
also spelled
Conden
Condun
Condoun
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Gover, J.E.B., Mawer, A., and Stenton, F.M., The Place-Names of Cornwall, 1944
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
York City Archives, Parish Registers of St. Michael le Belfrey, 1627
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fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
