Map of England showing where the Siddons arms are recorded
The Siddons arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
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.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Siddons 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 Siddons Family in England
The family name Siddons is believed to have originated in England as a locational surname, likely derived from a place name that described a specific landscape feature such as a wide valley or a broad hill. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that members of the Siddons family were living and working within this region during a time of significant social and economic change in Northern England. As residents of a major hub like York, these early family members were likely involved in the bustling trade, craftsmanship, or civic life that defined the city during the Stuart era. Over time, the name evolved through various spellings as it was recorded in parish registers and legal documents, eventually settling into the form recognized today.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Sid
A wide or broad meadow or pasture land.
This name
SiddonsDerived from a locational name referring to someone living near a wide valley.
also spelled
Sydons
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
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Account Rolls, 1620
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orlePreservation, and protection in battle
lionCourage, strength and royalty
cinquefoilHope and joy
orlePreservation, and protection in battle
lionCourage, strength and royalty
cinquefoilHope and joy
