Map of England showing where the Pickett arms are recorded
The Pickett 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 Pickett 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 Pickett Family in England
The surname Pickett is rooted in the medieval period of England and likely originated as a descriptive nickname or a reference to a specific occupation. Linguists believe the name evolved from the Old French word "piquet," which referred to a pointed tool or a small stake used in farming or military fortification. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records confirm that members of the Pickett family were living in this region by 1620, where they were integrated into the local community during a time of significant social and political change. These early ancestors were likely tradespeople or laborers who contributed to the local economy of York, helping to cement the family name within the northern English landscape long before many of their descendants eventually migrated to the American colonies.
Pickett Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Pic
A pointed object or a sharp peak.
This name
PickettA diminutive form referring to a small person or one who used a pointed tool.
also spelled
Pykett
Pikett
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, 1997
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1620
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
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axeThe execution of military duty
axeThe execution of military duty
