- 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.
Halvor William Moorshead
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
December 15, 2003
Vol. IV, p. 340
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Gules a maple tree eradicated between three mullets Argent;
Crest
A demi lion Azure holding in its dexter paw a scroll Argent;
Motto
GORDHYANS HA LENDURY;
Symbolism
Arms
The colours red and white are Canada’s national colours and represent Mr. Moorshead’s service to his adopted country, as does the maple tree. These two colours are also found in the flags of the United States and Norway, symbolizing other aspects of Mr. Moorshead’s family heritage. The tree is the tree of life, often a favourite symbol for those deeply involved in genealogical pursuits; in Mr. Moorshead’s case through research and publishing. The stars are a second reference to his American ancestry.
Crest
The lion represents Mr. Moorshead’s roots in Norway, the strength of his service to the community and his education in Britain. The use of blue for the lion is meant to complement the red and white of the arms. Together, these colours allude to the flags of the United Kingdom, the United States, and Norway. The scroll symbolizes Mr. Moorshead’s long involvement with publishing, most recently in the area of popularizing genealogical research.
Motto
This Cornish motto means “Honour and honesty”, two concepts which are important in Mr. Moorshead’s professional and personal life. Having the motto in Cornish is a reference to a particular part of his English heritage.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 12, 2005, in Volume 139, page 687 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
David Farrar
Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione
Recipient Information
Individual