Map of England showing where the Melcher arms are recorded
The Melcher 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 Melcher 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 Melcher Family in England
The Melcher surname has deep roots in the Germanic regions of Europe and eventually made its way to England. The name itself is a variation of the name Melchior, which historically held significant cultural meaning as one of the traditional names given to the Three Wise Men. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the Melcher family were established in the city of York. During this period, York was a bustling center of trade and religious life, and families like the Melchers often integrated into the local merchant classes or skilled trades. As these early family members settled into the community, they helped shape the local economy and social fabric of the city. Over time, the name evolved in spelling and pronunciation, but it remained a constant identifier for those who carried this lineage through the centuries.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Melchior
Derived from Hebrew meaning king of light or my king is light.
This name
MelcherAn English patronymic surname originating from the biblical name Melchior, signifying kingly status.
also spelled
Malchar
Malchier
Malchir
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
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.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
lionCourage, strength and royalty
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
lionCourage, strength and royalty
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
