Map of England showing where the Dowdall arms are recorded
The Dowdall arms were recorded in London, 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 Dowdall 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 Dowdall Family in England
The family name Dowdall has deep roots in the administrative and social life of early modern England. By the year 1620, members of the family were well-established in London, where they participated in the city’s growing commercial and legal sectors. The name itself is thought to have originated from a place name, likely referring to a specific valley or meadow area in the British Isles. As the family became more prominent in the capital, they integrated into the urban landscape, often working as merchants or local officials. This period of history was a time of significant migration and social change, and the Dowdalls were part of the families who helped shape the identity of London during the early seventeenth century. Their presence in the city records from this time highlights their role as active citizens who contributed to the development of the English capital.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
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)
“Ar. a fess betw. three martlets gu”
LouthLecall · Louth, c. 1645
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Map of Ireland showing where the Dowdall arms are recorded
The Dowdall arms were recorded in Louth, c. 1645.
Louth is the smallest Irish county but sat on the road north from Dublin. Norman families took it early, held it under arms, and stayed, which is what put their shields 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 Dowdall 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 Louth.
Origin & History of the Dowdall Family in Ireland
The Dowdall family name has deep roots in Ireland, particularly within County Louth, where the family established themselves as prominent landowners and political figures during the medieval period. Originally of Norman origin, the family arrived in Ireland following the Anglo-Norman invasion and quickly integrated into the local society of the Pale. By the time of the mid-seventeenth century, the Dowdalls were well-entrenched in the political and social life of Louth, holding significant estates and influence. Their presence in the region by 1645 reflects a long history of navigating the complex shifts in Irish land ownership and governance. As the family grew, they became deeply connected to the administrative and religious life of the area, often serving in local government roles that allowed them to maintain their status for several generations.
Dowdall Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
de Alta Villa
Old French for from the high town or high estate.
This name
DowdallA locational surname derived from the Norman French place name denoting someone from a high settlement.
also spelled
Dowdell
Dowdle
Related arms
Carberyrecorded with Dowdall, same area
Fahyrecorded with Dowdall, same area
Foxrecorded with Dowdall, same area
Kinsellaghrecorded with Dowdall, same area
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Archer, Ian W., The Pursuit of Stability: Social Relations in Elizabethan London, 1991
The National Archives, State Papers Domestic: James I, 1620
London Metropolitan Archives, City of London 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.
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
