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How was the College of Arms founded in England?

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Image shows a seal depicting several mythical creatures fighting. — heraldry Cylinder seal impression from the Akkadian period with a combat scene between a bearded hero and a bull-man and various beasts.

The College of Arms, the official heraldic authority for England and Wales, was first established by King Richard III in 1484. This charter incorporated the royal heralds, effectively separating them from the sovereign's domestic staff.12

However, the institution's history was not linear. The college was disbanded by Henry VII in 1485, the year following its inception. It remained inactive until 1555, when it was reestablished by Mary I.1

Originally housed in the 15th-century Derby Place, the college was forced to relocate after the building was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The current structure on the same site was erected between 1671 and 1678. Today, the college continues its role in investigating and recording coats of arms and pedigrees under the direction of the earl marshal.12