Map of England showing where the Pitzer arms are recorded
The Pitzer 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 Pitzer 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 Pitzer Family in England
The Pitzer family name has deep roots that trace back to the early seventeenth century in the historic city of York, England. During this period, the name appeared in local parish registers, marking the family as part of the community during a time of significant social and political change in Britain. Historians believe the name likely originated as a locational or descriptive surname, which was common practice for families living in or near specific landmarks or settlements during the Middle Ages. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the Pitzer family were firmly established in the York area, where they likely engaged in the trade and agricultural activities that defined the regional economy. Their presence in these early documents suggests that the family was well-integrated into the local social fabric, contributing to the growth and development of the city during the early Stuart period.
Pitzer Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Pitz
A diminutive form of the Germanic name Peter meaning rock or stone.
This name
PitzerA locational surname derived from a dweller at a pit or hollow.
also spelled
Pytcher
Pycher
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
York Minster Library and Archives, Parish Register Transcripts of York, 1600–1650
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
oakGreat age, strength and steadfastness
shipEnterprise, and a great voyage undertaken
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
oakGreat age, strength and steadfastness
shipEnterprise, and a great voyage undertaken
