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.
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Badge
March 15, 1993
Vol. II, p. 233
Arms of the National Council of Women of CanadaBlazonArgent a maple leaf Gules charged with a ribbon knotted to form a bow Or all within an orle of twelve like bows Azure; SymbolismThe maple leaf indicates the national scope of the organization. The bow is the membership pin of the National Council of Women (NCW), and their number represents the twelve provincial and territorial councils that existed at the time of the grant. The golden bow at the centre alludes to the Golden Rule (“Do unto others as ye would that they should do unto you”) inscribed on the membership pin. |
CrestBlazonRising above three bars wavy Argent Azure and Argent a grassy mound strewn with maple seeds Or and growing thereon a maple tree Or between two maple saplings Gules; SymbolismThe waves, grass and trees represent Canada and the stewardship of its riches. The central tree refers to the community of women across Canada, and the saplings represent new development of thought. The maple seeds symbolize birth and change. |
MottoBlazonALTIOR. This Latin word means "Higher". SymbolismThis Latin word, meaning “Higher” (often interpreted as “Ever higher”), was used as a motto by Lady Aberdeen, the founding president of the NCW. |
Badge of the National Council of Women of CanadaBlazonOn an oval Or two gavels in saltire heads upward facing outward Gules surmounted with a bow as in the arms Azure all within a border Gules charged with a border Or; SymbolismThe gavels represent the councils and affiliates of the NCW. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on June 26, 1993 in Volume 127, page 2077 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterJoan Bouwmeester CalligrapherJoan Bouwmeester Recipient TypeCivil Institution
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