We are pleased to announce the appointment of Peter O’Donoghue as the new Honorary Genealogist for the Order of St John, with responsibility for heraldic and genealogical matters within the whole Order. This is in recognition of his distinguished career and valuable contributions to heraldic and genealogical studies.
About Peter O’Donoghue
Peter is a senior Officer of Arms at HM College of Arms, where he has built a career spanning more than three decades in heraldic design, genealogical research, state ceremonial, flags, and related fields. He is a well-respected figure within the global heraldic community and frequently appears on television and as a lecturer in the UK and USA.
Notable milestones in Peter’s career include:
- His appointment as York Herald by the late Queen in 2012, after serving as Bluemantle Pursuivant from 2005.
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His current role as Registrar of the College of Arms since 2021, where he oversees the production of College records and the issuance of Letters Patent.
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A previous tenure as Librarian at the College of Arms from 2010 to 2021.
Peter’s extensive contributions to the field are reflected in his appointments and roles, including:
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Fellow, Society of Antiquaries of London
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Patron, Guild of One-Name Studies
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Chairman and Fellow, Heraldry Society
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Honorary Teaching Fellow, University of Dundee
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Vice-President, Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives
He has a particular interest in American heraldry and genealogy, reflected in his membership of the Committee on Heraldry of the New England Historic Genealogical Society. Peter also holds the role of Honorary Vice-President at the Cambridge University Heraldic and Genealogical Society, and he serves as Honorary Advisor to the Flags and Heraldry Parliamentary Committee.
Peter O’Donoghue has been an active volunteer with St John Ambulance since 2016 and is currently serving as President of the London Region. In this role, he leads a team that supports thousands of volunteers across the capital. His commitment to St John was recognised in 2024 when he was appointed a Member of the Order of St John.
Peter was educated at Dulwich College, and at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, where he earned an M.A. in English Literature. He is a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Armourers and Brasiers. He is married to Dr. Catherine Wolfe, a senior intellectual property lawyer, and together they have two children.
We are delighted to announce Peter O’Donoghue’s new honorary role within the Order of St John and look forward to the valuable contributions he will make as Order Genealogist.
