Map of England showing where the Holbert arms are recorded
The Holbert 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 Holbert 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 Holbert Family in England
The family name Holbert is rooted in the linguistic traditions of Northern England, where it likely evolved as a topographic or locational surname. In the early seventeenth century, the name was firmly established in the city of York, a major center of trade and administration. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the family were active residents in this region during a time of significant social and economic transition. The name itself is thought to be a variation of Old English or Germanic elements, often associated with individuals who lived near a hollow or a protected valley. As the family grew, they integrated into the local community, contributing to the professional and civic life of York while maintaining their presence in the historic county of Yorkshire for generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Holdbeorht
Derived from Old English elements meaning bright or famous hero.
This name
HolbertA locational or habitational surname referring to a bright or noble protector.
also spelled
Holbart
Holberd
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
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
