Map of England showing where the Cowles arms are recorded
The Cowles arms were recorded in Dorsetshire, c. 1620.
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 Cowles 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 Dorsetshire.
Origin & History of the Cowles Family in England
The surname Cowles is rooted in the landscape of medieval England, where it likely originated as a topographical name for people living near a small hill or a rounded mound. The name is derived from the Old English word "col," which refers to a coal-black color or a charcoal burner, often applied to those who worked in the dense woodlands of the southern counties. By the early 17th century, the family had established a firm presence in the county of Dorsetshire. This region was known for its agricultural traditions and coastal trade, providing a stable environment for families to settle and grow. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Cowles family were active participants in the local community life of Dorsetshire during this era. Their history reflects the broader movement of English families who transitioned from rural laborers to established landowners and tradespeople during the late Renaissance period.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
Colours
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Historical info
Source
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Gu. on a chev. betw. two”
Irelandc. 1647
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Map of Ireland showing where the Cowles arms are recorded
The Cowles arms were recorded in Ireland, c. 1647.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Dublin.
Dublin was the seat of government in Ireland and the place where grants were sought and recorded. Families with business at the castle or the courts settled nearby, and settling there put their arms on record.
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 Ireland in this period.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in England when the Cowles arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Ireland
The Ulster King of Arms granted coats of arms to individuals who proved their social standing and good character. These symbols were typically inherited by all legitimate descendants of the original holder. If a family branch wanted a unique look, they could apply for a specific change to their design through the office to ensure their identity remained distinct.
Granting authority
The Ulster King of Arms acted as the official body that regulated and issued all coats of arms throughout Ireland.
How they got arms
Families obtained their arms through formal grants issued by the office after proving their eligibility and paying the required fees.
Where arms were recorded
All official grants were recorded in the registers held by the Ulster King of Arms starting from the year 1552.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Ireland.
Origin & History of the Cowles Family in Ireland
The history of the Cowles family in Ireland is deeply connected to the turbulent political landscape of the seventeenth century. While the name likely originated from English or Norman roots, records confirm that members of the family were firmly established in Dublin by 1647. During this period, Dublin served as a critical hub for English settlers and military personnel during the Irish Confederate Wars. Families like the Cowles often arrived in the city as part of the administrative or military expansion that followed the arrival of parliamentary forces. By settling in the capital, these early family members became part of a growing urban population that navigated the complex social and religious shifts of the Cromwellian era. Their presence in the city records from this time suggests they were integrated into the professional and civic life of Dublin as the city transitioned through one of its most transformative historical chapters.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
col
Old French term for a mountain pass or neck of land.
This name
CowlesA topographical name for someone who lived near a mountain pass or ridge.
also spelled
Colls
Colle
Collee
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
Hanks, Patrick and Hodges, Flavia, A Dictionary of Surnames, 1988
The National Archives, Dorset Quarter Sessions Records, 1620
Dorset History Centre, Dorset Parish Registers, 1620
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
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
lionCourage, strength and royalty
