Map of England showing where the Farner arms are recorded
The Farner arms were recorded in Kent, c. 1620.
Kent sits between London and the short crossing to Europe, and the trade passing through made it wealthy. Merchant families bought land with that money, and it was landowners who took coats of 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 Farner 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 Kent.
Origin & History of the Farner Family in England
The surname Farner is rooted in the occupational history of medieval England, likely derived from the Middle English word "fernour" or "ferner," which referred to someone who worked as a baker or a keeper of an oven. By the early 17th century, the family had established a presence in the county of Kent, a region known for its rich agricultural output and proximity to the bustling trade routes of London. In 1620, individuals bearing this name were part of the local social fabric in Kent, living during a time of significant transition as England prepared for overseas expansion and colonial settlement. These early ancestors were likely tradespeople or farmers who contributed to the local economy of the English countryside. Their presence in Kent suggests they were settled members of the community who navigated the social and economic challenges of the Stuart period.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
fern
A type of non-flowering vascular plant with feathery fronds.
This name
FarnerAn occupational name for someone who lived near or gathered ferns.
also spelled
Farmery
Farmary
Farmory
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
Kent Archives, Archdeaconry of Canterbury Wills and Administrations, 1620
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
lionCourage, strength and royalty
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
lionCourage, strength and royalty
