Map of England showing where the Conly arms are recorded
The Conly 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 Conly 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 Conly Family in England
The family name Conly has deep roots that trace back to the Gaelic tradition, where it likely originated as a variation of the Irish surname Ó Conghalaigh. This name is derived from the word conghalach, which translates to valiant or hound-like, suggesting that early ancestors were known for their bravery or loyalty. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the family were established in York, England. This indicates that the family had moved across the Irish Sea during a period of significant migration and social change. Living in a major hub like York suggests that these early settlers were likely involved in trade, craftsmanship, or local administration. Over the following centuries, the spelling of the name evolved to suit English phonetics, eventually settling into the form used today. This transition from a Gaelic clan identity to a settled life in an English city highlights the adaptability of the family throughout history.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Cú Uladh
Hound of Ulster
This name
ConlyDerived from an Irish Gaelic personal name signifying a warrior or hound of the northern province.
also spelled
Conylie
Conilye
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
MacLysaght, Edward, The Surnames of Ireland, 1985
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
York City Archives, York Freemen's Register, 1272–1759
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
