Map of England showing where the Forcier arms are recorded
The Forcier arms were recorded in Durham, c. 1575.
Durham was governed by its bishop rather than the crown for most of its history, with its own courts and its own landed class. That separate world produced a tight group of families, nearly all of whom held 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.
Elizabeth I of England
Sovereign of the period
Elizabeth I of England
1558–1603
Reigning in England when the Forcier 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 Durham.
Origin & History of the Forcier Family in England
The Forcier family name has deep roots that can be traced back to the sixteenth century in the region of Durham. Records confirm that members of the family were living in this area as early as 1575. During this period, families often lived in small rural communities where their daily lives revolved around farming and local trade. The name itself likely evolved from older linguistic roots that described a person’s occupation or a specific physical trait. As the family grew, they became part of the social fabric of the region, contributing to the local economy and community life. By maintaining a presence in Durham for generations, the early Forcier family helped establish a lasting legacy that persisted long after their initial appearance in the historical record.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Fortis
Latin word meaning strong, brave, or powerful.
This name
ForcierDerived from a nickname for a strong or courageous individual.
also spelled
Forser
Forsere
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Durham County Record Office, Durham Diocesan Records: Probate Records
Surtees Society, Wills and Inventories from the Registry at Durham, 1835
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
lionCourage, strength and royalty
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
lionCourage, strength and royalty
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
