Map of England showing where the Doddridge arms are recorded
The Doddridge arms were recorded in Devon, c. 1620.
Devon was a county of small manors and seafaring families. Its gentry were spread thickly across the countryside, and money made at sea often bought an estate, which in turn brought a coat of 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 Doddridge 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 Devon.
Origin & History of the Doddridge Family in England
The surname Doddridge is a locational name that originated in the southwestern region of England. It is derived from the Old English words for a valley and a personal name, suggesting that the family first settled in a specific area known as Doddridge in Devon. By the early 17th century, the family had established a firm presence in this county, with records showing members active in local governance and the legal profession. As the family grew, they became well-known for their contributions to religious and intellectual life. Their history is deeply tied to the rural landscape of Devon, where the name evolved alongside the local community over several generations. This long-standing connection to the region helped the family maintain a consistent identity as they eventually spread to other parts of Britain and beyond.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Dodda
An Old English personal name derived from the word for rounded.
This name
DoddridgeA topographical name referring to a ridge associated with a person named Dodda.
also spelled
Doddridge
Dodridge
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1958
Hoskins, W.G., Devon, 1954
The National Archives, Prerogative Court of Canterbury and related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers, PROB 11
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
cross symbolChristian faith and service
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
cross symbolChristian faith and service
