- 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.
James Robert Neilson
Demorestville, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Flag
November 1, 2002
Vol. IV, p. 250
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Argent a Latin cross composed of four spearheads between two bear forepaw prints in dexter chief and in sinister base Azure;
Crest
A demi polar bear Argent holding a cross as in the Arms Azure;
Motto
SOMNIA NON SOLUM;
Flag
Azure an escutcheon of the Arms;
Symbolism
Arms
The cross refers to the Christian background of Mr. Neilson's family, and its form was inspired by a star, a reference to his upbringing in northern Alberta. The colours blue and white refer to sky and snow. The bear paw prints make a reference to the bear in the crest, and to the two sons of Mr. & Mrs. Neilson.
Crest
The bear is a favourite animal of Mr. Neilson's, and it is an appropriately Canadian symbol as well as a very ancient heraldic beast. It has been made unique here by the addition of the cross from the arms.
Motto
An original Latin phrase that means "Not dreams only", which indicates Mr. Neilson's wish to take action as well as to imagine.
Flag
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on December 20, 2003, in Volume 137, page 3980 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of James Robert Neilson, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
D. Robert Tunstall
Calligrapher
Nancy Ellis
Recipient Information
Individual