Map of England showing where the Herd arms are recorded
The Herd arms were recorded in London, c. 1620.
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 Herd 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 Herd Family in England
The surname Herd is an occupational name that traces its origins back to the Middle Ages in England. It was originally used to describe a person who worked as a herdsman or a tender of livestock, such as cattle or sheep. Because this was a common and essential job in rural communities, the name emerged independently in various parts of the country. By the early seventeenth century, the family had established a presence in London, as evidenced by records from 1620. During this period, London was a bustling center of trade and migration, drawing people from the countryside who sought new opportunities in the growing city. As the family settled into urban life, the name transitioned from a simple job description to a permanent hereditary surname passed down through generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Heorde
Old English term for a guardian or keeper of animals.
This name
HerdAn occupational surname for a person who tended or herded livestock.
also spelled
Heard
Hird
Related arms
Heardvariant spelling
Hirdvariant spelling
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
London Metropolitan Archives, Church of England Parish Registers, 1538–1812
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
water bougetThe crusader's water carrier, and a journey made
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
water bougetThe crusader's water carrier, and a journey made
