Map of England showing where the Tree arms are recorded
The Tree 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 Tree 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 Tree Family in England
The surname Tree is a topographical name, which means it was originally given to people who lived near a prominent or distinctive tree. In the early 17th century, the family established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records confirm that members of the Tree family were living there by 1620, a time when the city was a major hub for trade and local government in Northern England. Because surnames were often descriptive during this era, the name likely identified an ancestor who resided near a landmark tree in the local landscape. Over time, the family became part of the social fabric of York, contributing to the community as the name was passed down through generations. This connection to the land and the city helped shape the early identity of the family as they settled into their life in Yorkshire.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Treow
Old English word for a woody perennial plant or timber.
This name
TreeA topographic name for someone who lived near a prominent or notable tree.
also spelled
Trey
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
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
orlePreservation, and protection in battle
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
orlePreservation, and protection in battle
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
