Map of England showing where the Weddell arms are recorded
The Weddell arms were recorded in York, c. 1620.
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 Weddell 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 York.
Origin & History of the Weddell Family in England
The surname Weddell is a locational name that likely originated from people living near a specific valley or stream in Northern England. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the city of York. Records from 1620 show members of the Weddell family participating in the civic and commercial life of the city, which was a major hub for trade and politics at the time. During this period, the family became deeply integrated into the local community, with some members serving in positions of influence within the York merchant guilds. This transition from rural origins to urban prominence reflects the broader movement of families seeking new opportunities in growing English cities during the Stuart era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wade
Derived from the Old English verb wadan meaning to go or ford.
This name
WeddellA topographical name for someone who lived near a ford or a river crossing.
also spelled
Weddall
Wedal
Related arms
Weddallvariant spelling
Greenrecorded with Weddell, same area
Robinsonrecorded with Weddell, same area
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Collins, Francis, Register of the Freemen of the City of York, 1897
York City Archives, York House Books, 1620
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1958
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
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
martletA younger son, who must win his own land
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
