Map of Belgium showing where the Nellis arms are recorded
The Nellis arms were recorded in Malines, c. 1786.
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 Belgium in this period.
Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor
Sovereign of the period
Joseph II, Holy Roman Emperor
1765–1790
Reigning in Belgium when the Nellis arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Belgium
In Belgium, a coat of arms is considered personal property that is passed down through the male line to legitimate descendants. Families often use the same shield design across generations to show their shared heritage. If a branch of the family wants to change the design, they must apply for an official update to their specific version of the arms.
Granting authority
The Conseil héraldique is the official body that regulates and approves all coats of arms in Belgium.
How they got arms
Families obtain their coats of arms through formal royal grants or by confirming their historical right to use existing designs.
Where arms were recorded
All approved coats of arms are officially recorded in the public registers of the Conseil héraldique since 1844.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Belgium.
Origin & History of the Nellis Family in Belgium
The family name Nellis has deep roots tied to the region of modern-day Belgium, particularly around the city of Malines, which was known as Mechelen in the local language. By the year 1786, records confirm that members of the family were established residents in this historic area. The name itself is often considered a derivative of the name Cornelius, which was a popular choice across Europe for many centuries. Over time, the name evolved through local dialects and regional spelling habits as families moved and settled in different towns. Because Malines was a significant center for trade and religious administration during the late eighteenth century, families living there were often connected to the local craft guilds or the surrounding agricultural economy. These early ancestors helped shape the identity of the name before later generations began to migrate to other parts of the world.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Cornelius
Derived from the Latin word for horn.
This name
NellisA patronymic surname originating from the Low Countries meaning son of Cornelius.
also spelled
Neliss
Neliz
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Stadsarchief Mechelen, Bevolkingsregisters van de stad Mechelen, 1786
Debrabandere, Frans, Woordenboek van de familienamen in België en Noord-Frankrijk, 1993
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
cockCourage, vigilance and readiness for battle
cockCourage, vigilance and readiness for battle
