documented proof

[Doug Powell]

I have been looking at heraldry websites for Ireland, Scotland, and England, and they say they will consider a grant of arms for a non-citizen that can prove appropriate ancestry. Exactly what kind of proof is acceptable? I'm sure it would be more than filling in one's family tree using ancestry.com, but is hiring a professional genealogist necessary?

Thanks.

[Tim Powys-Lybbe]

Post by Doug Powell
I have been looking at heraldry websites for Ireland, Scotland, and England, and they say they will consider a grant of arms for a non-citizen that can prove appropriate ancestry. Exactly what kind of proof is acceptable? I'm sure it would be more than filling in one's family tree using ancestry.com, but is hiring a professional genealogist necessary?

From limited experience:

1. Their own records are always proof, except when you can prove they
are false.

2. They will accept normal public records:
(a) Photocopies or certified copies of parish registers,
(b) Ditto for BMD certificates,
(c) Similarly for Quaker records,
(d) Certified copies of wills and downloads of PCC wills,
(e) Old title deeds and similar legal documents.

3. Ask them what they want.

4. Ask to see a 'proof' they have accepted.

I would not bother to get a professional to do this for you, too
expensive. But if you cannot access the records yourself, Achievements
Ltd of Canterbury and AGRA have good reputations.

The record offices will make copies themselves of documents for a modest
fee.

Finally read some of J R Round's books of heraldic practice of yesteryear!