Is there a site for offically recognized family crests and coat of arms. recognized by gov. or hist. society?

Question

RECOGNIZED BY GOVERNMENT OR HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Answer 1

Well, some idiot wants to give Tebs thumb down for his answer.. which is COMPLETELY the right answer.

Start with the College of Arms site, which is the legal authority for all heraldry in the UK.  Read their FAQ, that explains who has authority concern coats of arms.  Family crests do not belong to families.

It is great that you have the sense to look for a legitimate source of information, and that you were given good info.

Answer 2

The College of Arms

http://www.college-of-arms.gov.uk/About/...

http://www.heraldica.org/topics/france/f...

http://www.hereditary.us/about_hsc.htm

http://www.ngsgenealogy.org/comconsumerp...

Answer 3

I think you are wise to ask for a site by a government or historical society.  In the U.S., we have no laws regarding heraldry.  However, there have been Americans who have appied to the British College of Arms and have been granted one.  I understand theirs like those of men that have been knighted are not hereditary.

Tebs gave you some very good links.

The peddlers that sell them have valid coats of arms in many cases but they sell them like they belong to everyone with a particular surname.  That is not valid.