Map of England showing where the Du Preez arms are recorded
The Du Preez 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 Du Preez 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 Du Preez Family in England
The family name Du Preez traces its origins to the French language, where it is derived from the phrase "du pré," meaning "of the meadow." While many people associate the name with later migration to South Africa, historical records confirm that members of the family were already established in York, England, by 1620. During this period, the name was often adapted to fit English spelling conventions, appearing in various documents as Dupre or Dupree. These early family members in Northern England were likely part of the broader movement of Huguenot refugees and skilled workers who sought new opportunities across the English Channel. By settling in established urban centers like York, these individuals integrated into local trade and community life, helping to preserve their unique linguistic heritage while adapting to their new surroundings.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Du Pré
French for of the meadow
This name
Du PreezA topographic surname denoting someone who lived near or worked in a meadow.
also spelled
Dupr
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
C.G. Botha, The French Refugees at the Cape, 1921
National Archives (UK), State Papers Domestic, James I, 1620
B.J.P. Laubscher, The History of the Du Preez Family, 1968
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
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
lionCourage, strength and royalty
