Definition
The Fisher baronets refer to the hereditary titles of baronetcy created in the British honours system for members of the Fisher family. These titles have been instituted in the Baronetage of England, the Baronetage of Great Britain, and the Baronetage of the United Kingdom, and are generally styled “Sir [First name] Fisher, Baronet”.
Overview
Three distinct Fisher baronetcies have been recorded:
| Baronetcy | Date of creation | Jurisdiction | Territorial designation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fisher Baronetcy of St Marylebone | 19 May 1622 | Baronetage of England | “of St Marylebone in the County of Middlesex” | Extinct (d. 1655) |
| Fisher Baronetcy of The Bungalow | 28 June 1738 | Baronetage of Great Britain | “of The Bungalow in the County of Kerry” | Extinct (d. 1795) |
| Fisher Baronetcy of Carwell | 8 March 1808 | Baronetage of the United Kingdom | “of Carwell in the County of Durham” | Extant (as of the latest published roll) |
The first creation, in 1622, was awarded to Thomas Fisher, a merchant and royalist supporter. The second, in 1738, honoured John Fisher, a landowner in Ireland. The third, in 1808, recognised the services of Sir William Fisher, a noted naval officer and Member of Parliament.
While the earlier two creations became extinct when the last male heirs died without issue, the 1808 creation continues to be listed in the Official Roll of the Baronetage. Holders of the title have historically been involved in commerce, politics, and military service.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “Fisher” is of English origin, derived from the Middle English occupational name fissher meaning “one who catches fish.” The baronetcies were granted to individuals bearing this surname in recognition of personal achievement, loyalty to the Crown, or contributions to public life.
Characteristics
- Hereditary succession: The baronetcy descends according to the standard male‑primogeniture rules applicable to British baronetcies, unless a special remainder is specified in the letters patent.
- Style and precedence: Holders are styled “Sir” followed by their given name and the surname Fisher, with the post‑nominal letters “Bt” or “Bart.” Their wives are addressed as “Lady Fisher.”
- Heraldic arms: Each creation possesses its own coat of arms, typically featuring symbols associated with fishing (e.g., a fish or net) combined with familial or regional motifs.
- Entitlement: Baronets are not peers and therefore do not sit in the House of Lords by virtue of the title alone; however, many have served in elected positions or the armed forces.
Related Topics
- Baronetage of England, Baronetage of Great Britain, Baronetage of the United Kingdom
- British hereditary titles (dukes, earls, viscounts, barons, baronets)
- Heraldry of the United Kingdom
- Lists of extinct and extant baronetcies
- Notable members of the Fisher family (e.g., Sir William Fisher, naval reformer)
Note: Information presented is based on documented listings in the Official Roll of the Baronetage and reputable historical references. Where specific details (such as precise dates of extinction) are not publicly available, the entry reflects the most reliable data currently accessible.