Map of England showing where the Hollywood arms are recorded
The Hollywood 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 Hollywood 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 Hollywood Family in England
The surname Hollywood is a topographic name that originally described someone who lived near a grove of holly trees. While the name is often associated with the famous district in California, its roots are firmly planted in the British Isles. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the Hollywood family were established in the city of York. During this period, families in York were often involved in the city’s thriving trade guilds and local governance. As the family settled into this historic northern hub, they became part of the social fabric of the region. Over time, the name spread as individuals moved for work or family opportunities, eventually carrying the lineage far beyond its early English origins.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Holt and Wudu
Old English words for a wood or grove of trees.
This name
HollywoodA topographic name for someone who lived near a holly tree or a holy wood.
also spelled
Holliwood
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
York City Archives, York Freemen’s Register, 1272–1759
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
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
