Map of England showing where the Redhead arms are recorded
The Redhead 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 Redhead 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 Redhead Family in England
The surname Redhead is a descriptive name that originated in medieval England as a nickname for someone with striking red hair or a ruddy complexion. During the early seventeenth century, the family established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Redhead family were active residents in this region, likely participating in the local trade and social life of the city. Because York was a major hub for commerce and administration at the time, families like the Redheads often played a role in the growth of the local community. Over the generations, the name transitioned from a simple physical description into a permanent family identifier that was passed down through the centuries.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
read heafod
Old English words for red and head.
This name
RedheadA descriptive nickname for a person with red hair or a ruddy complexion.
also spelled
Redhed
Redhede
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
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
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.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
saltireResolution, and St Andrew's cross
