- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
The University Club of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Supporters, Flag and Badge
July 20, 2006
Vol. V, p. 36
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Or a chief Azure overall a pale counterchanged charged with a Corinthian column Argent, in chief a hurt between two plates;
Crest
A Palladian window Argent glazed Azure;
Supporters
Two peregrine falcons proper that to the dexter gorged with a wreath of maple leaves that to the sinister gorged with a wreath of grape vines Or, each resting its interior claw on a book Argent bound Azure and standing on a floor lozengy Argent and Sable;
Motto
SAPIENTIA ET COMITAS;
Flag
Azure charged with the Badge;
Badge
A monogram composed of the letters U, C and T Or;
Symbolism
Arms
The background colours, blue and gold, are those of the Club. The blue and white makes a connection to the University of Toronto. The Corinthian column is a feature of the library and the main dining room as well as an allusion to classical learning, and thus to the Club’s original mandate as a gathering place for university graduates. The white discs refer to the Club’s Round Table and the longstanding tradition of a “club table”, and to the idea of a plate and therefore of dining and fine food. The blue disc symbolizes a squash ball, a favourite sporting activity at the Club.
Crest
The window is based on the one on the Club’s main façade on University Avenue. The arch is an ancient symbol of hospitality.
Supporters
The peregrine falcon is a bird associated in heraldry with strength, determination and leadership. It is a Canadian bird, and its colouring is very similar to colours of the shield. Peregrine falcons nest in downtown Toronto in buildings close to the University Club. The maple leaves refer to the Club’s Canadian identity, and the grape vines to its extensive wine collection. The books refer to the Club’s connection to university education. The base on which they stand resembles the main floor of the Club as it has appeared since 1929.
Motto
Meaning “Wisdom and good fellowship”.
Flag
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Badge
The arrangement of the initial letters of the Club’s name has been used for many years.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 18, 2006, in Volume 140, page 3687 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Gordon Macpherson
Calligrapher
Heather Taylor
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
Club & Social Organization