Map of France showing where the Janke arms are recorded
The Janke arms were recorded in France, c. 1725.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Bretagne.
More families held coats of arms in Bretagne than anywhere else in France. The land was divided into many small estates rather than a few large ones, so far more households counted as gentry, and each needed a shield of its own to be told apart.
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 France in this period.
Louis XV of France
Sovereign of the period
Louis XV of France
1715–1774
Reigning in France when the Janke arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in France
In France, a coat of arms was a mark of honor that passed down through the male line to all legitimate descendants. Families often used the same shield without changes to show their shared heritage. If a branch wanted to stand out, they could add a small mark to their shield to show their specific place in the family tree.
Granting authority
The Juge d'armes de France acted as the official authority that regulated and verified coats of arms across the country.
How they got arms
Families typically inherited their arms from ancestors, though they could also receive them through royal grants or by proving their noble status.
Where arms were recorded
Coats of arms were officially recorded in the Armorial Général de France, which began its main collection in the year 1696.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of France.
Origin & History of the Janke Family in France
The Janke family name has roots that trace back to the linguistic shifts occurring across Northern and Central Europe. The name is a diminutive form of the name Johannes, which evolved as families sought to distinguish themselves within their local communities. By the early 18th century, members of the family had established a presence in the region of Bretagne. Their arrival in this area suggests a history of movement and migration, likely driven by the search for new opportunities or shifts in regional trade. Settling in Bretagne during 1725, these early ancestors integrated into the local social fabric while maintaining the distinct identity associated with their name. This period marked a significant chapter in the family history as they adapted to the customs and culture of their new home.
Janke Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Johannes
Hebrew origin meaning God is gracious.
This name
JankeA diminutive form of John, signifying a gift or grace from God.
also spelled
Jahnkee
Jahnk
Jahnkue
Yonke
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Bahlow, Hans, Deutsches Namenlexikon: Familien- und Vornamen nach Ursprung und Sinn erklärt, 1967
Archives départementales d’Ille-et-Vilaine, Registres paroissiaux et d'état civil, 1725
Heintze, Albert, Die deutschen Familien-Namen: geschichtlich, geographisch, sprachlich, 1903
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
