Map of England showing where the Willan arms are recorded
The Willan arms were recorded in London, c. 1620.
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 Willan 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 Willan Family in England
The surname Willan is a patronymic name, which means it originated as a way to identify a person as the son of someone named Will or William. While the name has deep roots in the northern regions of England, such as Yorkshire and Westmorland, family members were well-established in London by the early 17th century. By 1620, the Willan family was active in the capital, participating in the city's growing commercial and social life during the reign of King James I. During this era, many families moved from rural northern counties to London to seek new opportunities in trade and administration. These early London residents helped cement the name as a recognized part of the city's population, contributing to the diverse tapestry of families that defined the urban landscape of the time.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wilhelm
Derived from Germanic elements meaning resolute protector or strong-willed helmet.
This name
WillanA patronymic surname indicating descent from a person named William.
also spelled
Willen
Wyllan
Related arms
William, or Willansimilar arms
Etheringtonrecorded with Willan, same area
Robinsonrecorded with Willan, same area
Wakefieldrecorded with Willan, same area
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
The National Archives, Prerogative Court of Canterbury and related Probate Jurisdictions: Will Registers, 1384–1858
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
roundelA coin, and one who has been to the crusades
