The Ellerton Coat of Arms  

Originally only kings and noblemen bore arms, but over time they became more widely adopted as a sign of social status. Arms displayed on shields became widespread in the 13th century, primarily as a form of identification in battles. A full "achievement" of arms consists of a shield, crest (on the helmet), and supporters (such as lions and unicorns). These were often accompanied by a motto, usually in Latin.

Coats of arms are hereditary, and are normally only passed down through the male side of the family. If a holder of arms fails to produce a son the right to the arms is surrendered (as in the case of John Lodge who, in 1838, assumed both the name and arms of Ellerton by Royal licence). Only the eldest son bore precisely the same arms as his father, modified versions being adopted by younger sons.

The Ellerton Coat of Arms consists of a silver shield, one or more chevrons, and the heads of three stags/bucks. Some examples (courtesy of Nigel Ellerton) are shown below, and if anyone knows anything about the history of them please let me know. According to researcher Peter Ellerton the arms on the right were last borne by John Ellerton of Swaledale, who took on the name of Wycliffe in 1422. The Ellerton/Wycliffe coat of arms can be seen in Wycliffe Church on a brass plate in the altar floor.

Page last updated: October 2002