Map of England showing where the Meanwell arms are recorded
The Meanwell 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 Meanwell 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 Meanwell Family in England
The surname Meanwell is a locational or descriptive name that likely originated in Northern England. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the Meanwell family were well-established residents of York. During this period, York was a bustling center of trade and religious life, and families living there often held positions as skilled craftsmen or merchants. The name itself suggests a person of good intentions or a kind disposition, which may have been a nickname used to distinguish one family from their neighbors in the crowded city streets. As the family grew, they became part of the social fabric of Yorkshire, contributing to the local economy and the development of the region throughout the seventeenth century.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Mene-wella
Old English for common or middle spring or stream.
This name
MeanwellA topographic name for someone who lived near a central or middle water source.
also spelled
Manwill
Manwall
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 City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
handFaith, sincerity and justice
handFaith, sincerity and justice
