Map of England showing where the Higginbotham arms are recorded
The Higginbotham 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 Higginbotham 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 Higginbotham Family in England
The surname Higginbotham is of English origin and is traditionally linked to the hilly landscapes of the North Midlands. The name is topographical, meaning it was likely adopted by families who lived near a specific landmark, as it is derived from the Middle English words for a high valley or a thicket. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Higginbotham family were active residents in this region during a time of significant social and political change in England. Over the following decades, the family name spread from these northern roots as individuals sought new opportunities in trade and agriculture across the British Isles and eventually abroad.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Hicgin and Botham
Derived from the name Hick and the Old Norse word for valley.
This name
HigginbothamRefers to a dweller in a valley belonging to a person named Hick.
also spelled
Higenbotham
Higgynbotham
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
The National Archives, Yorkshire Parish Registers, 1620
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roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
