The body that granted and recorded arms in Jersey in this period.
James II of England
Sovereign of the period
James II of England
1685–1688
Reigning in Jersey when the Poingdestre arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Jersey
Arms in the Channel Islands were granted and recorded by the College of Arms in London, under the same law of arms as England. They could be used by all legitimate descendants of the original owner: the eldest son kept the original design, and other family members used the same shield without registering a version of their own.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms for Jersey and the other Channel Islands 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 Jersey.
Origin & History of the Poingdestre Family in Jersey
The family name Poingdestre has deep roots in the Channel Island of Jersey, where the family was well established long before the late seventeenth century. The name itself is of Old French origin and is often interpreted as meaning "right fist" or "right hand." Historical records confirm that members of the family were prominent landowners and active participants in island life by 1688. During this period, the family was deeply integrated into the local community, often serving in administrative roles or managing agricultural estates. Because Jersey served as a bridge between England and France, the family likely navigated a unique cultural landscape that blended Norman traditions with British governance. Their long presence on the island suggests they were a stable and influential lineage that helped shape the social and economic development of Jersey over several generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Poing destre
Old French for right-hand fist or right-handed punch.
This name
PoingdestreA nickname for a person who was left-handed or a fighter who used their right hand.
also spelled
Poingdestrey
Poingdestrie
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Balleine, G. R., A Biographical Dictionary of Jersey, 1948
Payne, J. B., Armorial of Jersey, 1865
Jersey Heritage, Jersey Baptism, Marriage and Burial Records
Jersey Heritage, Extentes of Jersey, 1528 and 1607
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
handFaith, sincerity and justice
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
handFaith, sincerity and justice
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
