Map of England showing where the Pullen arms are recorded
The Pullen arms were recorded in York, c. 1620.
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 Pullen 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 York.
Origin & History of the Pullen Family in England
The surname Pullen is a locational and occupational name that emerged in England during the Middle Ages. Historians believe the name is derived from the Old French word poulain, which referred to a young horse or a colt. It was often used as a nickname for a person who was energetic or had a lively personality. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Pullen family were active participants in the civic and social life of this northern English hub. During this period, the family likely worked in trades common to the region, such as merchant activities or textile production, which were essential to the economy of York. Over time, the name spread from these urban centers into the surrounding countryside, becoming a permanent part of the local history.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
pullus
Latin term meaning a young animal or a chicken.
This name
PullenAn occupational name for a keeper of poultry or a nickname for a youthful person.
also spelled
Pullein
Pulleyn
Pullyn
Related arms
Pulleinsame arms
Pulleynvariant spelling
Pullingvariant spelling
Pullynvariant spelling
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, 1991
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Account Rolls, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
