Map of England showing where the Wyche arms are recorded
The Wyche 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 Wyche 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 Wyche Family in England
The surname Wyche is rooted in the Old English word "wic," which historically referred to a salt spring or a specialized settlement where salt was produced. People who lived near these salt works or in towns known for salt production often adopted the name to identify their place of origin. By the early 17th century, members of the Wyche family had established a presence in the historic city of York. Records from 1620 confirm that the family was active in the region during a time of significant social and economic change in Northern England. As the family grew, they became integrated into the local community, likely participating in the trade and civic life that defined York as a major hub for commerce and governance. This connection to the landscape and the local industry helped define the family identity long before they expanded into other parts of the country.
Wyche Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
wic
Old English term for a dwelling, village, or salt works.
This name
WycheRefers to someone who lived near a salt spring or a fortified settlement.
also spelled
Wiche
Related arms
Wichevariant spelling
Holfordrecorded with Wyche, same area
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
York City Archives, York City Chamberlains' Accounts, 1620
Ekwall, Eilert, The Concise Oxford Dictionary of English Place-names, 1960
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griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
griffinValour and vigilance, guarding great treasure
