Map of England showing where the Meeh arms are recorded
The Meeh arms were recorded in Nottingham, c. 1620.
Nottinghamshire had coal under it and forest across it, and both were worth money. Families who profited bought manors, and a manor was the ordinary reason for a family to take a coat of 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 Meeh 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 Nottingham.
Origin & History of the Meeh Family in England
The family name Meeh has roots that trace back to the English Midlands, with documented evidence placing members of the family in Nottingham as early as 1620. During the seventeenth century, Nottingham was a bustling center for trade and manufacturing, particularly known for its textile and hosiery industries. Families living in this region during that period often found work in these growing crafts or as skilled laborers in the local markets. The name itself likely evolved from regional dialects or nicknames common to the East Midlands, reflecting the way people identified one another in small, tight-knit communities. As the family established itself in the area, they became part of the local social fabric, contributing to the daily life and economic development of the town during a time of significant change in English history.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Middle English 'me', 'mee'
A term denoting a person of small stature or humble status.
This name
MeehA descriptive nickname for an individual who was physically short or of low social standing.
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Nottinghamshire Archives, Nottingham St Mary’s Parish Registers, 1620
Thoroton, Robert, The Antiquities of Nottinghamshire, 1677
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
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chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
cross symbolChristian faith and service
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
