A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Govier family of England.
Reg. 2036 · English, G–I
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Historical info
Source
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Az. a saltire ar”
Englandc. 1620
Where the Govier Arms Were Recorded
York
Map of England showing where the Govier arms are recorded
The Govier 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 Govier 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 Govier Family in England
The surname Govier carries a history deeply rooted in the social structures of medieval England. Etymologists often link the name to the Old French word *gouverneur*, which suggests that early ancestors may have held positions of responsibility, such as managing estates or overseeing households for local nobility. By the early 17th century, the family had established a clear presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Govier family were living and working within this northern hub during a time of significant transition in English society. As residents of a major center for trade and religion, these early family members likely participated in the vibrant urban life of the era, contributing to the local economy and the evolving identity of the city.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Gaufridus
A Germanic name composed of elements meaning territory and peace.
This name
GovierA patronymic surname derived from the Old French personal name Gaufier, a variant of Geoffrey.
also spelled
Govier
Govyer
Govar
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, 1997
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
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saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
