Map of England showing where the Towse arms are recorded
The Towse arms were recorded in London, c. 1634.
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.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in England when the Towse 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 Towse Family in England
The surname Towse is believed to have originated in England as a descriptive nickname or a variation of older occupational names. While the exact linguistic roots are debated, the name likely emerged from Northern English or Scandinavian influences that were common in early medieval naming patterns. By the time the family was firmly established in London during the early 17th century, they were part of a growing urban middle class. Records from 1634 confirm that members of the Towse family were active participants in the social and economic life of the city during this period. These early ancestors were often involved in trade and civic duties, helping to build the foundations of the family legacy in the capital. As the family grew, they integrated into the bustling environment of London, leaving behind a trail of parish registers and legal documents that highlight their presence in the heart of English history.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Tovi
Old Norse personal name meaning beautiful or good.
This name
TowseA patronymic surname derived from the son of Tovi.
also spelled
Towze
Towes
Related arms
Toosevariant spelling
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, 1958
London Metropolitan Archives, City of London Parish Registers, 1634
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bordureA difference between branches of one family
swordJustice, and military honour
bordureA difference between branches of one family
swordJustice, and military honour
