This surname of ADAMES was a baptismal name 'the son of Adam', almost the prime favourite as a font name in the 13th Century. It was also a popular name in Scotland, and there is a legend that a Duncan Adam, who lived in the reign of Robert the Bruce, had four sons, Robert, John, Reginald, and Duncan, and that from them all the Adams, Adam, MacAdams and Adies in Scotland are descended. Early records of the name mention John Filius Adam was recorded in County Oxford, 1273. Johannes Adam of Yorkshire, was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. Thomas Williams and Anne Addams were married in London in 1619, and Thomas Adams and Elizabeth Emerson, were married at St. George's, Hanover Square, London in the year 1640.

John Adams (1735-1826) 2nd President of the United States; member of the committee formed to draft the Declaration of Independence. John Adams (1760-1829), one of the Bounty's mutineers; founded settlement on Pitcairn Island. John Couch Adams (1819-1892), astronomer, discoverer of the planet Neptune. 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 flowing and draped garment worn over the armour. This name was originally from the Hebrew personal name ADAM, which was borne according to Genesis, by the first man. It is of uncertain etymolology, and often said to be from the Hebrew ADAMA (earth). The Greek legend that Zeus fashioned the first human beings from earth. It was very popular as a given name throughout Europe during the Middle Ages. The associated coat of arms is recorded in Sir Bernard Burkes General Armory. Ulster King of Arms in 1884.