Map of England showing where the Mallett arms are recorded
The Mallett arms were recorded in England, c. 1614.
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 Mallett 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 Mallett Family in England
The family name Mallett has deep roots in England, with historical records confirming that members of the family were well-established in the city of York by 1614. The name itself is thought to have originated as a nickname derived from the Old French word "maillet," which refers to a small hammer or mallet. During the medieval period, such names were often given to people based on their trade, their physical strength, or their personality. By the early 17th century, families carrying this name were integrated into the social and economic life of northern English cities like York. While many families during this era were tied to specific crafts or local commerce, the presence of the Mallett name in city records suggests they were active participants in the urban growth of the time. Over the following centuries, the family continued to spread across the region, maintaining their connection to the history of northern England.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
malleus
Latin word meaning a hammer or mallet.
This name
MallettA nickname for a person who was physically powerful or worked as a smith.
also spelled
Malette
Related arms
Hatfieldrecorded with Mallett, same area
Thorntonrecorded with Mallett, same area
Warderecorded with Mallett, same area
Yerburghrecorded with Mallett, same area
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 with Special American Instances, 1901
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1614
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
buckleFidelity, and a bond firmly held
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
buckleFidelity, and a bond firmly held
