Map of England showing where the Elkins arms are recorded
The Elkins arms were recorded in London, c. 1558.
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.
Mary I
Sovereign of the period
Mary I
1553–1558
Reigning in England when the Elkins 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 Elkins Family in England
The family name Elkins is a patronymic surname, which means it originated as a way to identify a person as the son or descendant of someone named Elk. The name Elk was a common medieval nickname or short form for the name Elias or Elijah. By the time the name appeared in London records in 1558, it had become a stable family identifier passed down through generations. During the sixteenth century, London was a rapidly growing center of trade and commerce, attracting families from across England who sought new opportunities in the capital. The Elkins family likely lived as merchants, craftsmen, or laborers during this period, contributing to the bustling urban life of the Elizabethan era. As the name spread from London to other parts of the country, it remained tied to its roots as a simple way to describe a family lineage.
Elkins Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Elias
The Lord is my God
This name
ElkinsA patronymic surname derived from a diminutive form of the name Elijah.
also spelled
Elkyn
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
London Metropolitan Archives, Church of England Parish Registers, 1538–1812
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
lionCourage, strength and royalty
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
lionCourage, strength and royalty
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
