William Bruges was an English officer of arms. He is best remembered as the first person appointed to the post of Garter King of Arms, which is currently the highest heraldic office in England.
William Bruges kneeling before St George, first illumination in the Bruges Garter Book made by Bruges c.1430-1440.
Illustration from the 1430 Garter Book made by William Bruges, showing Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster(d.1361), the second ever recipient of the Order
St George's Church, Stamford, built by William Bruges, viewed from south
Garter Principal King of Arms
Garter Principal King of Arms is the senior king of arms and officer of arms of the College of Arms, the heraldic authority with jurisdiction over England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The position has existed since 1415.
Ceremonial dress
An illuminated manuscript from around 1430 showing William Bruges, the first Garter King of Arms, kneeling before St George. He was appointed in 1415 or 1417.
Sir Edward Walker, who was Garter during the interregnum.
Sir William Dugdale, one of England's leading antiquaries, was Garter between 1677 and his death in 1686. As a King of Arms, he conducted visitations to 10 English counties.