Map of England showing where the Spillman arms are recorded
The Spillman 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 Spillman 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 Spillman Family in England
The surname Spillman is of English origin and is traditionally linked to those who worked as messengers or town criers. The name likely evolved from the Middle English words "spel," meaning a story or message, and "man," which identified the person performing the task. By the year 1620, records confirm that members of the Spillman family were well-established in the city of York. During this period, York served as a major center for trade and administration in Northern England. Families living there often held roles that required literacy and travel, which aligns with the historical meaning of the name. As the family grew, they became part of the local social fabric, contributing to the development of the region through their professional and community involvement.
Spillman Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Spielmann
German term for a traveling musician, entertainer, or minstrel.
This name
SpillmanAn occupational surname for a professional performer or wandering entertainer who traveled between villages.
also spelled
Spelman
Spylman
Related arms
Spelmanvariant spelling
Spylmanvariant spelling
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, 1997
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames with Special American Instances, 1901
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
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fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
