Map of England showing where the Weightman arms are recorded
The Weightman arms were recorded in Nottingham, c. 1620.
Nottinghamshire had coal under it and forest across it, and both were worth money. Families who profited bought manors, and a manor was the ordinary reason for a family to take 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 Weightman 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 Nottingham.
Origin & History of the Weightman Family in England
The surname Weightman is an occupational name that originated in medieval England, likely referring to a person who worked as a weighmaster or a person responsible for measuring goods at a market. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in Nottinghamshire, as evidenced by records showing members of the family living in Nottingham by 1620. During this period, the name was often spelled in various ways, such as Waytman or Weightman, which was common before spelling became standardized. These early ancestors were likely part of the growing merchant or craft classes in the region, contributing to the local economy of the East Midlands. As the family grew, they became deeply rooted in the social and professional life of Nottingham, helping to shape the history of the area through their work and community involvement.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wihtman
Old English compound meaning man of weight or important person.
This name
WeightmanA locative or occupational surname denoting a person of significant status or influence.
also spelled
Waytman
Waitman
Related arms
Bromleyrecorded with Weightman, same area
Smithrecorded with Weightman, same area
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1997
Nottinghamshire Archives, Nottingham St Mary’s Parish Registers, 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
maunchThe lady's sleeve, worn as a favour
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
maunchThe lady's sleeve, worn as a favour
