Map of England showing where the Vowell arms are recorded
The Vowell arms were recorded in Devon, c. 1620.
Devon was a county of small manors and seafaring families. Its gentry were spread thickly across the countryside, and money made at sea often bought an estate, which in turn brought a coat of 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 Vowell 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 Devon.
Origin & History of the Vowell Family in England
The surname Vowell is deeply rooted in the history of the West Country of England, with significant records placing the family in the county of Devon by the early 17th century. The name is believed to have originated as a descriptive nickname or a variation of the Middle English term for a vow, perhaps referring to someone who was known for making solemn promises or who held a religious role. By 1620, families bearing this name were well-established members of the local community, often working as skilled tradespeople or landowners within the rural parishes of the region. As the family grew, they became integrated into the social and economic life of Devon, contributing to the development of the local villages through their work and civic participation. This early presence in the southwest of England provided the foundation for the family to eventually spread across the country and overseas in the following centuries.
Vowell Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Fowell
Derived from the Old English word for a bird or fowl.
This name
VowellA topographical or occupational surname referring to a bird catcher or keeper.
also spelled
Vowill
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
Devon Archives and Local Studies Service, Parish Registers of Devon, 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
lionCourage, strength and royalty
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
lionCourage, strength and royalty
