Map of England showing where the Torr arms are recorded
The Torr 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 Torr 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 Torr Family in England
The surname Torr is primarily topographical in origin, meaning it was likely adopted by families who lived near a prominent rocky outcrop or a high, craggy hill. In the Old English language, the word torr refers to a rocky peak or a tower-like formation, which suggests that the earliest ancestors to carry this name lived in the rugged landscapes of Northern England. By the year 1620, historical records confirm that members of the Torr family were well-established in the city of York. During this period, York was a bustling center of commerce and religion, and families with this name were active participants in the local community. As the family grew, they moved through various trades and roles, helping to shape the social fabric of the region while maintaining their connection to the history of the Northern English landscape.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
torr
Old English word meaning a rocky peak or high crag.
This name
TorrA topographic name for someone who lived near a prominent rocky hill or mountain peak.
also spelled
Tore
Torrie
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
Smith, A.H., The Place-Names of the West Riding of Yorkshire, 1961
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
The National Archives, Lay Subsidy Rolls for the County of York
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
bordureA difference between branches of one family
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
buckleFidelity, and a bond firmly held
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
bordureA difference between branches of one family
towerGrandeur and solidity, and a stronghold defended
buckleFidelity, and a bond firmly held
