Map of England showing where the Rowden arms are recorded
The Rowden arms were recorded in York, c. 1618.
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 Rowden 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 Rowden Family in England
The surname Rowden is a locational name, which means it was originally derived from a specific place where the family lived. The name is believed to come from Old English words meaning a rough or stony valley. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records confirm that members of the Rowden family were living there by 1618, likely working as tradespeople or merchants within the city walls. During this period, York was a bustling center of commerce and religion, and families like the Rowdens were part of the growing urban population that helped shape the local economy. Over time, as family members moved to different regions for work or marriage, the name spread from these northern roots to other parts of England.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
ruh and denu
Old English for rough or wild and a valley.
This name
RowdenA habitational name referring to someone who lived in a rough or uncultivated valley.
also spelled
Rowden
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
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1618
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
arms pheon arrowheadReadiness for battle, and the broad arrow of the sovereign
lionCourage, strength and royalty
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
arms pheon arrowheadReadiness for battle, and the broad arrow of the sovereign
lionCourage, strength and royalty
