First recorded in the modern spelling in the late 17th century as either Sloss or Slose, the name is derived from the medieval German "Schloss" meaning "a Lock" and is probably the metonymic for a Lock Maker. It may also be a topographical name for one who resided by or at a Castle (also Schloss), but it is most likely that the original "English" name holders were Lock Makers. As Schloss, the surname is recorded heraldically in Prussia. The Coat of Arms being three Silver new moons on a Gold field, c.1680. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Garett Gloss. which was dated 1698 (Baptised) St. Botolph without Aldgate, London. during the reign of King William III, of Orange and England, 1689 - 1704. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.