Map of England showing where the Hermer arms are recorded
The Hermer 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 Hermer 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 Hermer Family in England
The surname Hermer carries a long history rooted in the northern regions of England, particularly within the historic city of York. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the family were well-established residents in this area. The name likely evolved from Old English or Germanic origins, often serving as a descriptive term for a person who worked with iron or held a specific position within a local trade guild. During the early seventeenth century, families like the Hermers were typically involved in the bustling urban life of York, which served as a major center for commerce and religion. As the family grew, they became part of the social fabric of the city, contributing to the local economy and the development of the region through their daily labor and community involvement. Their presence in York during this era reflects the broader movement of families who settled in established towns to pursue stable livelihoods and build lasting legacies.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Hari-mar
Derived from Germanic elements meaning army and famous or boundary.
This name
HermerA locational or occupational surname likely referring to a guardian of a boundary or a famous warrior.
also spelled
Harmar
Harmor
Hermer
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1958
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
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
