Map of England showing where the Scrivner arms are recorded
The Scrivner arms were recorded in York, c. 1620.
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 Scrivner 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 Scrivner Family in England
The surname Scrivner is an occupational name that originated in medieval England. It comes from the Old French word escrivein, which refers to a professional scribe or a clerk who copied documents by hand. During the seventeenth century, individuals bearing this name were established in the city of York. Because York was a major center for trade and administration, it is likely that early family members worked in roles involving legal records, accounting, or the transcription of official manuscripts. By 1620, the family had become part of the local community in this historic northern city, where they contributed to the professional life of the region through their literacy and clerical skills.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
scribere
A Latin verb meaning to write or mark.
This name
ScrivnerAn occupational surname for a professional scribe, clerk, or writer of legal documents.
also spelled
Scrivener
Scrivin
Scryven
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
The National Archives, York City Archives: House Books, 1620
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
lionCourage, strength and royalty
hunting horn stringedOne who delights in the chase
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
lionCourage, strength and royalty
hunting horn stringedOne who delights in the chase
