Map of England showing where the Cuddy arms are recorded
The Cuddy 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 Cuddy 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 Cuddy Family in England
The family name Cuddy has deep roots in the northern regions of England, with historical records confirming that members of the family were established in the city of York by the year 1620. The name is generally considered to be a derivative of the name Cuthbert, which was a popular choice in the north due to the influence of Saint Cuthbert of Lindisfarne. Over many generations, the name evolved from a formal given name into a hereditary surname as families began to settle in specific communities. By the early 17th century, families bearing this name were integrated into the local life of York, often working as tradespeople or merchants within the city walls. This period was a time of significant social change in England, and the presence of the Cuddy family in such a prominent urban center suggests they were active participants in the regional economy and community of that era.
Cuddy Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Cuthbert
Derived from Old English elements meaning famous and bright.
This name
CuddyA medieval diminutive form of the name Cuthbert, often used as a familiar nickname.
also spelled
Caddey
Cadie
Cadye
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1997
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1620
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
pileWell-doing, and a mark of distinction
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
wheatsheafPlenty, and the harvest of one's own labour
pileWell-doing, and a mark of distinction
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
wheatsheafPlenty, and the harvest of one's own labour
