About Our Foundation

The College of Arms Foundation is independent of the College of Arms in London; however, its effectiveness is dependent upon the goodwill and cooperation of the College and, more specifically, the Officers of Arms (or heralds), who are the custodians of the ancient arts and traditions of heraldry in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Foundation also liaises with the College of Arms Trust, a UK charity.

The Foundation was incorporated in the State of New York in 1983 at the time of the College of Arms' 500th anniversary when a major exhibit on English heraldry was organised at the New-York Historical Society.

The original purpose of the Foundation was to raise funds to preserve the College’s building on Queen Victoria Street in the City of London, where it has been based since the late 17th century.

In 2001, the Foundation's focus was changed to promote knowledge of, and interest in, English heraldry in the United States, while continuing to support the efforts of the College. Through 2015, the Foundation co-sponsored lectures on heraldry with the New York Genealogical & Biographical Society, at whose office the events were held.

Through the 2000s, the Foundation began making a few financial contributions to projects at the College of Arms. The pace picked up in the 2010s and continues today. These grants have fully funding the conservation of historical manuscripts, partially funding new publications, or were for other purposes. Please visit our Services & Projects page for a full listing of our 21st Century grants.

Additionally, the Foundation provides in-person or online speakers on English heraldry for appropriate events at no charge.