The body that granted and recorded arms in Jersey in this period.
James II of England
Sovereign of the period
James II of England
1685–1688
Reigning in Jersey when the Godfrie arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Jersey
Arms in the Channel Islands were granted and recorded by the College of Arms in London, under the same law of arms as England. They could be used by all legitimate descendants of the original owner: the eldest son kept the original design, and other family members used the same shield without registering a version of their own.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms for Jersey and the other Channel Islands 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 Jersey.
Origin & History of the Godfrie Family in Jersey
The family name Godfrie traces its roots to the Germanic elements meaning god and peace. This surname evolved from a popular medieval given name that spread across Europe during the Middle Ages. By the late seventeenth century, the family established a notable presence on the island of Jersey. Historical records confirm that members of the Godfrie family were living on this island by 1688. During this period, Jersey served as a unique cultural bridge between England and France. Families living there often navigated complex maritime trade routes and local agricultural traditions. The presence of the Godfrie name in these early island registers suggests that the family was well-integrated into the local community. They likely participated in the distinct social and economic life that defined the Channel Islands during the late seventeenth century.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Godfrid
Derived from the Germanic elements for god and peace.
This name
GodfrieA name signifying peace granted by the divine or peace of God.
also spelled
Godfraye
Godfrayy
Godfrey
Godfry
Godfrie
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Balleine, G. R., A Biographical Dictionary of Jersey, 1948
Jersey Heritage, Jersey Archive: St. Helier Parish Baptism, Marriage and Burial Registers, 1688
Messervy, J. A., Actes des États de l'île de Jersey, 1906
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bordureA difference between branches of one family
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
bordureA difference between branches of one family
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
