- 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.
Niagara Herald Extraordinary, Canadian Heraldic Authority
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of a Badge of Office
May 2, 2001
Vol. IV, p. 115
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Badge
On a compass rose of sixteen points Gules, a plate fimbriated Gules charged with three pallets wavy Azure;
Symbolism
Badge
The base of the badge on a red compass rose of sixteen points. A compass shows direction and here indicates nationwide or even international outreach for heraldry. The compass rose was inspired in part by the badge of the Heraldry Society of Canada. As such, it pays tribute to the work the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada in establishing the Canadian Heraldic Authority and in continuing to promote heraldry in Canada. At the centre of the badge are three wavy stripes that indicate flowing water; more specifically, the Niagara River. As they are shown vertically they make a reference not only to the south-to-north flow of the river but also to its most famous feature, the Niagara Falls. The Niagara River is at the centre of the Great Lakes transportation system, which was used extensively by aboriginals, allowing European explorers access to the interior of the continent, and is today vitally important in worldwide trade.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 3, 2001, in Volume 135, page 4058 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Gordon Macpherson, Niagara Herald Extraordinary, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
Gordon Macpherson
Calligrapher
Judith Bainbridge
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
National (Officer)