Map of England showing where the Hibben arms are recorded
The Hibben arms were recorded in Worcester, c. 1620.
Worcestershire was orchard and farming country with a scattering of old manors. Its gentry were middling rather than great, but a manor was a manor, and holding one was what brought 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 Hibben 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 Worcester.
Origin & History of the Hibben Family in England
The surname Hibben is believed to have roots in the northern regions of England, where it likely developed as a patronymic name meaning son of Hibbe, which was a common medieval nickname for someone named Gilbert. By the early 17th century, members of the family had established a presence in the city of Worcester. Historical records indicate that these early Hibbens were active participants in the social and economic life of the region during a time of significant transition in England. As the family moved through the 1600s, they were part of the broader migration patterns that saw many English families seeking new opportunities both within the British Isles and across the Atlantic. Their early history reflects the typical experiences of families who lived through the shifting political and religious landscapes of the Stuart era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Hibbe
A medieval pet form of the Germanic name Hildebert.
This name
HibbenA patronymic surname meaning son of Hibbe or descendant of bright battle.
also spelled
Hibbens
Hibben
Hibbon
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
Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service, Parish Registers of the Diocese of Worcester, 1620
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
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
