This surname of ALLIS was a baptismal name 'the son of Alwin, or Alice'. The name has been common in England and Scotland since the 13th century and other spellings of the name include ALLIS, ALIS, HALLIS, ALISE, ALICE, ALLEX and ADELE, to name but a few. This was the name of the wife of the Emperor Otto the Great, St. Adelaide (or Alice) who died in the year 999. It was also the name of the goose in medieval beast tales. The name fell out of use as a personal name in the 16th and 17th centuries, being revived again in the 19th century. Early records of the name mention Gocelinus filius Alice who was documented in County Lincoln in the year 1273. William Alisun was recorded in the year 1248 in Berkshire and Henry Alleyson was documented in the year 1332 in Warwickshire. George Haynes and Agnes Alles were married in London in the year 1571. Gabriel Alason was baillie of the burgh of Dumfries in the year 1693. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield, and embroidered on his surcoat, the draped and flowing garment worn over the armour. Between the 11th and 15th centuries it became customary for surnames to be assumed in Europe, but they were not commonplace in England or Scotland before the Norman Conquest of 1066. They are to be found in the Domesday Book of 1086. Those of gentler blood assumed surnames at this time, but it was not until the reign of Edward III (1327-1377) that it became common practice for all people. The associated arms are recorded in Sir Bernard Burkes General Armory. Ulster King of Arms in 1884. The eagle depicted in the crest is emblematical of fortitude and magnanimity of mind. The Romans used the figure of an eagle for their ensign, and their example has been often followed. It is the device of Russia, Austria, Germany and the United States of America.