Map of England showing where the Laxton arms are recorded
The Laxton arms were recorded in London, c. 1544.
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.
Henry VIII of England
Sovereign of the period
Henry VIII of England
1509–1547
Reigning in England when the Laxton 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 Laxton Family in England
The surname Laxton is a locative name, meaning it originated from a specific place rather than a trade or a personal characteristic. It is derived from the village of Laxton, which is located in the county of Northamptonshire in England. During the medieval period, people often adopted the name of their home village when they moved to a new area to help others identify where they came from. By the year 1544, records confirm that members of the Laxton family were well-established in London, suggesting that the family had successfully migrated from their rural roots to the growing capital city. This era was a time of significant social change in England, and families like the Laxtons were part of a broader movement of people seeking new opportunities in urban centers. As they settled into London life, they helped solidify the name as a distinct family identity that has persisted for centuries.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Lecc
Old English term for a leek or a vegetable garden.
This name
LaxtonDerived from a location meaning a settlement near a leek patch.
also spelled
Laxtoun
Laxtun
Related arms
Leptonsame arms
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
The National Archives, Letters and Papers, Foreign and Domestic, Henry VIII, 1544
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
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
