Map of England showing where the Rigden arms are recorded
The Rigden arms were recorded in Lincoln, c. 1620.
Lincolnshire was rich farming country, and its wealth was spread across many middling families. Households of that size bought land and took arms, and the county holds a large share of English names.
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 Rigden 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 Lincoln.
Origin & History of the Rigden Family in England
The Rigden surname is rooted in the landscape of medieval England, likely originating as a topographical name for people who lived near a specific ridge or a cleared valley. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of Lincoln. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Rigden family were active participants in the civic and social life of this region during a time of significant transition in England. As the family settled into the local community, they became part of the fabric of Lincoln, contributing to the local economy and the growth of the city. Their presence in such a prominent administrative and religious center suggests that early Rigdens were well-integrated into the professional and tradesman classes of the era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Hrycg-denu
Old English for ridge and valley.
This name
RigdenA topographic name for someone who lived in a valley near a ridge.
also spelled
Rygdon
Rigden
Rygden
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
Lincolnshire Archives, Lincoln Consistory Court Wills, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
pileWell-doing, and a mark of distinction
cross symbolChristian faith and service
pileWell-doing, and a mark of distinction
cross symbolChristian faith and service
