- 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.
British Columbia Genealogical Society
Richmond, British Columbia
Grant of Arms
May 15, 2017
Vol. VI, p. 724
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Azure on a pile reversed Argent between two keys wards in base above two bars wavy Or, a Douglas fir eradicated Azure;
Motto
FINDING THE KEYS TO OUR PAST;
Symbolism
Arms
Blue, white and gold are the emblematic colours of the British Columbia Genealogical Society. The waves represent the many rivers and lakes of British Columbia, as well as the surrounding sea. The white triangle evokes the mountains of the province. The keys are found in the current emblem of the Society and are modelled after an 18th century key from the time that Captain George Vancouver explored and mapped areas of British Columbia. They symbolize the idea of unlocking the past and unlocking knowledge. The Douglas Fir is the iconic tree of British Columbia. It also alludes to a family tree.
Motto
This phrase reinforces the symbolism of the keys in the arms, and highlights the society’s aim to research and preserve British Columbia’s genealogical heritage.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 31, 2018, in Volume 152, page 895 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Manon Labelle, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Debra MacGarvie
Calligrapher
Kathy Feig
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
Non-Profit Organization