The Wars of the Roses

1455 – 1487 Wars of the Roses

Coat of Arms of the College of Arms; or the Herald's College is a heraldic authority, with jurisdiction over England, Wales, Northern Ireland and in some Commonwealth realms.The arms was created either in 1484, when the College was incorporated by King Richard III or in 1555 when it was reincorporated under Queen Mary I and King Philip. “ Blazon: Argent, a cross Gules (Cross of St. George) between four doves, the dexter wing of each expanded and inverted Azure; for a crest on a ducal coronet Or, a dove rising Azure; Two lions rampant guardant argent, ducally gorged or; for a motto DILIGENT AND SECRET. ”
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College of Arms

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The College of Arms is the institution that governs all matters of heraldry in modern Britain. It was established on 2nd March 1484 for that very purpose in England and Wales.  

The heralds were granted a common seal and the authority to act in the name of the King. Furthermore, they were given a building, Coldharbour House, where they could administer all matters relating to heraldry. The Duke of Norfolk, the Earl Marshall of England, was assigned as patron of the body. The charter for the Royal College of Arms summarises its function as:  

“…)the Garter King of Arms of England, the King of Arms of the Southern parts, the King of Arms of the Northern parts, the King of Arms of Wales, and all other heralds and pursuivants of arms… for the time being, shall be in perpetuity a body corporate in fact and name, and shall preserve a succession unbroken.” 

The College had responsibility for the heralds who organised tournaments. Through this, the College of Arms became known as the source of expertise in armour and, as coats of arms are hereditary, noble genealogy as well. 

The College of Arms has retained a role in the modern world. Though the need for heralds at Tournaments diminished over time, heraldry’s use grew in other areas. For example, the use of Coats of Arms on town and corporate liveries became part of the College of Arms’ function. 

The most visible work of the heralds of the College of Arms remains state functions. They are prominent at Royal weddings, funerals, the opening of Parliament and at State Banquets.

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History of the College of Arms

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Coat of Arms of the College of Arms; or the Herald’s College is a heraldic authority, with jurisdiction over England, Wales, Northern Ireland and in some Commonwealth realms.The arms was created either in 1484, when the College was incorporated by King Richard III or in 1555 when it was reincorporated under Queen Mary I and King Philip. “ Blazon: Argent, a cross Gules (Cross of St. George) between four doves, the dexter wing of each expanded and inverted Azure; for a crest on a ducal coronet Or, a dove rising Azure; Two lions rampant guardant argent, ducally gorged or; for a motto DILIGENT AND SECRET. ” Via Wikipedia.

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