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.
Montréal, Quebec
Grant of Arms, Supporters, Flag and Badge
March 15, 2012
Vol. VI, p. 116
Arms of the University Club of MontrealBlazonPer bend sinister serpentine Gules and Or, a yellow birch tree eradicated counterchanged; SymbolismThe tree is a symbol of knowledge, and thus refers to the original mandate of the club as a gathering place for university graduates. The yellow birch is the official tree of the province of Quebec. The curved division line alludes to the main staircase at the club. The deep red and gold are the club’s colours. |
CrestBlazonAn owl rising Or perched on a mortarboard Azure; SymbolismThe owl is a symbol of wisdom and thus refers to the mandate of the club. The mortarboard is a type of academic vesture and emphasizes the important role that university professors, particularly from McGill University, have played at the club from its very beginnings. Blue is a secondary colour of the club. |
MottoBlazonSPERARE OPTIMUM; SymbolismThis Latin motto, literally meaning “Hope for the best”, has been in use by the club for several decades, with the translation “Expect the best”. |
SupportersBlazonTwo unicorns Or crined and unguled Gules each gorged with a coronet Azure of maple leaves Gules and fleurs-de-lis Azure and standing on a grassy mount set with grape vines fructed and leaved and poppy flowers proper; SymbolismThe unicorn is a creature of imagination and mystery, a symbol of strength and purity. The coronets of maple leaves and fleurs-de-lis indicate the Canadian identity of the club as well as the francophone aspect of its membership. The poppy flowers allude to one of the club’s founders, Dr. John McRae, who wrote the poem of remembrance “In Flanders Fields”. The grape vines symbolize hospitality in general as well as the club’s growing reputation for fine dining and its extensive wine collection. |
Flag of the University Club of MontrealBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Badge of the University Club of MontrealBlazonOn a torteau environed by a wreath of conifer branches, a unicorn’s head couped, all ensigned by a coronet of maple leaves and fleurs-de-lis Or; SymbolismThis takes elements from the arms and the supporters along with a wreath based on decorative elements in the University Room of the club. The wreath is a symbol of accomplishment, and by being bound together it also indicates unity. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on November 3, 2012 in Volume 146, page 3053 of the Canada Gazette.   |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Deputy Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterEva Pilar-Cass CalligrapherShirley Mangione Recipient TypeCivil Institution
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