Map of England showing where the Severa arms are recorded
The Severa arms were recorded in Merton College, c. 1574.
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.
Elizabeth I of England
Sovereign of the period
Elizabeth I of England
1558–1603
Reigning in England when the Severa 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 Severa Family in England
The surname Severa carries a deep connection to the historical landscape of Northern England, with documented evidence placing the family in the city of York as early as 1574. The name itself is thought to be derived from the Latin word severus, which translates to stern or serious. In medieval times, such names were often given as descriptive nicknames to individuals who displayed a particularly grave or disciplined demeanor. By the late sixteenth century, families bearing this name were well-established within the urban fabric of York, a city that served as a major center for trade and religious life. These early ancestors likely lived through a period of significant social change in England, navigating the transition from the Tudor era into the Stuart period while maintaining their presence in the region. Their long-standing residence in York suggests that they were integrated into the local community, perhaps working as craftsmen or merchants who contributed to the bustling economy of the historic walled city.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Severus
Latin word meaning stern, strict, or serious.
This name
SeveraA surname derived from a personal name denoting a person of serious character.
also spelled
Sevar
Sevir
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
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains’ Accounts, 1574
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
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
ringFidelity, and a promise kept
