Map of England showing where the Smither arms are recorded
The Smither 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 Smither 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 Smither Family in England
The surname Smither is an occupational name that emerged in medieval England to describe someone who worked as a smith. During the Middle Ages, metalworking was a vital trade, and those who forged iron or other metals were essential members of every village and town. By the early 17th century, the family had established a clear presence in the historic city of York. Records confirm that members of the Smither family were living in this northern hub by 1620, a time when York was a bustling center of commerce and regional administration. As the family grew, they likely integrated into the local economy by continuing the tradition of skilled craftsmanship or by adapting to the changing social landscape of the city. Their presence in such a prominent location suggests that the family was well-established and played a role in the daily life of the community during the early Stuart period.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Smitan
Old English verb meaning to strike or beat with a hammer.
This name
SmitherAn occupational surname for a person who works with metal, specifically a blacksmith.
also spelled
Smyther
Smithar
Smythar
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, Percy Hide, A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
The National Archives, Lay Subsidy Rolls for the County of York, 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
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
crescentHonour by the sovereign, and the second son
pileWell-doing, and a mark of distinction
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
crescentHonour by the sovereign, and the second son
