Map of England showing where the Ravenscroft arms are recorded
The Ravenscroft arms were recorded in Chester, c. 1620.
Cheshire was governed apart from the rest of England for much of its history, with its own courts and its own gentry. That separateness bred a strong local landed class, and landed families 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 Ravenscroft 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 Chester.
Origin & History of the Ravenscroft Family in England
The surname Ravenscroft is a locative name, meaning it originated from a specific place rather than a trade or personal characteristic. The name is derived from Old English words that translate to a croft, or small enclosed field, frequented by ravens. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the city of Chester. During this period, Chester served as a vital hub for trade and administration in the northwest of England. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Ravenscroft family were active participants in the social and civic life of the city. As the family grew, they integrated into the local community, leaving behind a legacy tied to the geography and history of the Cheshire region.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Hrafn and croft
Old English terms for a raven and a small enclosed field.
This name
RavenscroftA habitational name referring to a secluded field or farmstead frequented by ravens.
also spelled
Ravenscraft
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
Cheshire Archives and Local Studies, Chester City Quarter Sessions Records, 1620
Mills, Anthony David, A Dictionary of English Place-Names, 1991
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
ravenConstancy and divine providence
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
ravenConstancy and divine providence
