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.
Hamilton, Ontario
Registration of Arms
October 15, 2006
Vol. V, p. 75
Arms of McMaster UniversityBlazonArgent an eagle displayed Gules beaked, membered and charged on the breast with a Latin cross flory Or, on a chief Azure an open book proper bound Gules clasped Or between two maple leaves Or; SymbolismThe eagle, with its remarkable powers of sight, symbolizes the university’s guiding principles based on religious morality, a “heavenly vision” of Christian inspiration, also represented by the cross. The book signifies learning. The maple leaves represent the province of Ontario, where the university is located, and whose provincial government granted the University’s charter. |
CrestBlazonOn a mount Vert before an oak tree a stag courant proper; SymbolismThe stag and tree were emblems used by Senator William McMaster, founder and namesake of the University. |
MottoBlazonTA ΠANTA EN XPIΣΩI ΣYNEΣTHKEN; SymbolismThis Greek phrase, meaning “In Christ all things consist,” is adapted from Colossians 1:17, and refers to the University’s foundation as a Christian institution. The motto is in Greek, one of the main unifying languages used in the early propagation of the Christian religion. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on March 17, 2007 in Volume 141, page 587 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of the heralds at the Court of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh. PainterNot available CalligrapherNot applicable Recipient TypeCivil Institution
Other InformationThe recipient’s emblems have been originally recorded in the records of the Court of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh, Scotland, 20 October 1930. |