Map of England showing where the Priest arms are recorded
The Priest 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 Priest 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 Priest Family in England
The surname Priest is an occupational name that originated in England during the Middle Ages. It was typically given to people who worked in or around a church, or sometimes to someone who played the role of a priest in a popular village pageant or play. By the early 17th century, the name was well-established across various English regions, including the city of York. Records confirm that families bearing this name were living in York by 1620, a time when the city was a major center for trade and religious administration. These early ancestors were likely part of the growing urban middle class, participating in the daily civic and commercial life that defined the historic city during the reign of King James I.
Priest Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
presbyter
A Greek term meaning elder or senior member of a community.
This name
PriestAn occupational surname for someone who served as a priest or acted as one in plays.
also spelled
Preest
Prist
Preist
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1958
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
