Map of Ireland showing where the Ridgely arms are recorded
The Ridgely arms were recorded in Ireland, c. 1614.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Dublin.
Dublin was the seat of government in Ireland and the place where grants were sought and recorded. Families with business at the castle or the courts settled nearby, and settling there put their arms on record.
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 Ireland in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in Ireland when the Ridgely arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Ireland
The Ulster King of Arms granted coats of arms to individuals who proved their social standing and good character. These symbols were typically inherited by all legitimate descendants of the original holder. If a family branch wanted a unique look, they could apply for a specific change to their design through the office to ensure their identity remained distinct.
Granting authority
The Ulster King of Arms acted as the official body that regulated and issued all coats of arms throughout Ireland.
How they got arms
Families obtained their arms through formal grants issued by the office after proving their eligibility and paying the required fees.
Where arms were recorded
All official grants were recorded in the registers held by the Ulster King of Arms starting from the year 1552.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Ireland.
Origin & History of the Ridgely Family in Ireland
The Ridgely family name carries a history deeply rooted in the movement of people across the British Isles during the early seventeenth century. While the name likely originated from English locations defined by ridges or clearings, its presence in Dublin by 1614 highlights the family’s involvement in the shifting social and political landscape of the era. During this period, many families moved to Ireland to participate in administration, trade, or the development of new estates. By settling in a bustling urban center like Dublin, the Ridgelys became part of a growing community of merchants and officials who helped shape the city’s development. This migration suggests that early family members were likely adaptable and well-connected, as they established themselves in a new environment during a time of significant transition for both Ireland and England.
Ridgely Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Ridge-leah
A clearing located on or near a ridge or elevated ground.
This name
RidgelyRefers to someone who lived in a meadow or clearing situated upon a ridge.
also spelled
Ridgley
Rydgeley
Rydgley
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
MacLysaght, Edward. The Surnames of Ireland. 1985
O'Hart, John. Irish Pedigrees; or, The Origin and Stem of the Irish Nation. 1892
The National Archives of Ireland, Calendar of the Patent Rolls of the Chancery of Ireland
Dublin City Library and Archive, Dublin City Council Records
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
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
