A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Duncombe family of England.
Reg. 1145 · English, D–F
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
greyhoundCourage, vigilance and loyalty
Colours
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
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)
“Per chev. engr. gu. and ar. three talbots' heads erased, counterchanged”
YorkCopgove · York, c. 1620
Where the Duncombe Arms Were Recorded
York
Map of England showing where the Duncombe arms are recorded
The Duncombe arms were recorded in York, c. 1620.
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 Duncombe 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 York.
Origin & History of the Duncombe Family in England
The Duncombe family name originates from an Old English locational term, likely referring to a "valley of the down" or a secluded hollow in the hills. By the early 17th century, members of the family had established a significant presence in the city of York, where they became active participants in the local mercantile and civic life. During this period, York was a vital hub for trade and administration in Northern England, and the Duncombes integrated themselves into the social fabric of the region. Their early history is marked by a transition from rural origins to becoming influential figures within the city walls. This move allowed them to build lasting connections that supported their growth and reputation throughout the following decades.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Dun-cumb
A valley located on a hill or down.
This name
DuncombeDerived from a topographical location describing a settlement situated in a valley near a hill.
also spelled
Duncom
Duncomb
Duncumb
Related arms
Duncumbvariant spelling
Atkinsonrecorded with Duncombe, same area
Boderecorded with Duncombe, same area
Davenantrecorded with Duncombe, same area
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
Reaney, Percy Hide, A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Account Rolls, 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
greyhoundCourage, vigilance and loyalty
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
greyhoundCourage, vigilance and loyalty
