Map of England showing where the Hendy arms are recorded
The Hendy arms were recorded in Lancaster, c. 1620.
Lancashire was divided among a great many small landed families, more than most northern counties. Estates were passed down whole rather than split up, so the same names hold the same ground for centuries in the records.
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 Hendy 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 Lancaster.
Origin & History of the Hendy Family in England
The surname Hendy is rooted in the linguistic traditions of medieval England, where it likely originated as a descriptive nickname. The word "hendy" was a Middle English term meaning courteous, gentle, or polite, and it was often used to identify someone with a pleasant or refined personality. By the time members of the family were established in Lancaster in 1620, the name had transitioned from a simple descriptor into a formal hereditary surname passed down through generations. These early settlers in the Lancaster region were part of a growing community in the North West of England, a period defined by significant social and economic shifts. As the family put down roots in this historic city, they contributed to the local labor and trade networks that shaped the area during the early seventeenth century. Over time, the name became a permanent marker of their family identity, reflecting both their medieval linguistic origins and their long-standing presence in the English landscape.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
hende
Middle English term meaning courteous, polite, or pleasant.
This name
HendyA descriptive nickname for a person who was considered polite, kind, or gracious in manner.
also spelled
Hendis
Related arms
Hyndesimilar arms
Hendisvariant spelling
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
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
lionCourage, strength and royalty
