Map of England showing where the Eleby arms are recorded
The Eleby arms were recorded in Lincoln, c. 1620.
Lincolnshire was rich farming country, and its wealth was spread across many middling families. Households of that size bought land and took arms, and the county holds a large share of English names.
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 Eleby 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 Lincoln.
Origin & History of the Eleby Family in England
The history of the Eleby family name is deeply rooted in the historic city of Lincoln, England, where records confirm the family’s presence as early as 1620. During the seventeenth century, Lincoln served as a major hub for trade and administration, placing the family in a region characterized by its ancient Roman foundations and medieval architecture. The name likely evolved as a locational or descriptive surname, which was a common practice for families living in or near specific parishes within the East Midlands. By establishing themselves in Lincoln during this period, the early members of the Eleby family became part of a stable community that navigated the significant social and religious shifts of the Stuart era. Their presence in local parish registers suggests that they were integrated into the daily life of the city, contributing to the local economy and the development of the region over several generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Aethelbeorht
Old English elements meaning noble and bright.
This name
ElebyA locational or patronymic surname derived from the ancient Germanic personal name meaning noble brightness.
also spelled
Ely
Elie
Elleis
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Lincolnshire Archives, Bishop's Transcripts of Parish Registers, 1620
Lincolnshire Archives, Lincoln Consistory Court Wills, 1620–1650
Hill, J.W.F., Tudor and Stuart Lincoln, 1956
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
