Map of England showing where the Grimson arms are recorded
The Grimson arms were recorded in York, c. 1620.
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 Grimson 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 York.
Origin & History of the Grimson Family in England
The surname Grimson is a patronymic name, which means it was originally derived from the given name of a father or ancestor. It is rooted in the Old Norse name Grímr, which translates to mask or helmet, combined with the suffix meaning son. This suggests that the family likely has roots tracing back to the Viking influence in Northern England. By the year 1620, historical records confirm that members of the Grimson family were established residents of York. During this period, York was a bustling center of trade and religion, and families living there were often involved in the local wool industry or merchant guilds. The presence of the family in such a prominent city indicates that they were likely integrated into the professional and social fabric of Northern English life during the early seventeenth century.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Grim
Old Norse word meaning fierce, masked, or helmeted.
This name
GrimsonPatronymic surname meaning son of the fierce or masked one.
also spelled
Grymston
Grimstone
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
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
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fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
