- 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.
William Grant Cliff
Strathroy, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Badge
October 5, 1999
Vol. III, p. 360
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Per bend wavy Or and Azure in chief a cross crosslet fitchy and in base an anchor counterchanged;
Motto
ETERNAL FATHER STRONG TO SAVE;
Badge
A cross crosslet fitchy the foot merged with the flukes of an anchor Azure within a ribbon Or inscribed with the Motto in letters Azure;
Symbolism
Arms
The division of the shield suggests both the divine and the secular, the spiritual realm within the material world. The cross indicates Father Cliff’s calling and the evangelical mission-oriented aspects of the Christian Faith. This type of cross features frequently in Scottish heraldry and is a reference to his maternal Scottish descent. The anchor refers to the faith as anchoring one’s life and to the gospel idea of hope. It also alludes to the fact that Father Cliff’s paternal ancestors went to sea and were involved in the merchant marine.
Motto
This is the first line of a hymn traditionally associated with seafarers, particularly in the maritime armed services.
Badge
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 July 22, 2000, in Volume 134, page 2265 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of David Bowyer, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
David Bowyer
Calligrapher
Nancy Ellis
Recipient Information
Individual