Map of England showing where the Overend arms are recorded
The Overend 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 Overend 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 Overend Family in England
The surname Overend is a locational name that originated in the northern regions of England. It is derived from the Old English words ofer and ende, which together describe someone who lived at the upper end of a valley or a village. By the early seventeenth century, the family had established a notable presence in the city of York. Records confirm that members of the Overend family were living there by 1620, likely working as tradespeople or merchants within the city walls. During this period, York was a major hub for commerce and religious life, and families like the Overends played a part in the local community as the city transitioned through the Stuart era. Because the name was tied to specific physical landmarks, it likely emerged independently in several northern locations before becoming a recognized family identifier.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Oferende
Old English words for over and end or boundary.
This name
OverendA topographical name for someone who lived at the edge or boundary of a settlement.
also spelled
Overand
Overind
Overent
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
Reaney, Percy Hide, A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
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.
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
arms pheon arrowheadReadiness for battle, and the broad arrow of the sovereign
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
arms pheon arrowheadReadiness for battle, and the broad arrow of the sovereign
