Map of England showing where the Elwell arms are recorded
The Elwell 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 Elwell 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 Elwell Family in England
The surname Elwell is a locational name that originated in England, likely derived from a place name meaning a spring or stream belonging to a person named Ella. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Elwell family were living in this region, which was a major center for trade and administration at the time. These early ancestors were often part of the growing merchant or artisan classes who helped shape the local economy. As the century progressed, some members of the family sought new opportunities across the Atlantic, eventually carrying the name to the American colonies. This transition marked the beginning of the family's expansion from a localized English lineage into a broader international presence.
Elwell Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Aethelweald
Old English elements meaning noble and ruler or power.
This name
ElwellDerived from a locative source referring to a spring or well belonging to a noble person.
also spelled
Ellwill
Elwill
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, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 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
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
