Resort Municipality of Whistler

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.

Whistler, British Columbia
Grant of Arms and Supporters
January 15, 2016
Vol. VI, p. 581

Arms of the Resort Municipality of Whistler
Arms of the Resort Municipality of Whistler
 
Arms of the Resort Municipality of Whistler

Arms of the Resort Municipality of Whistler

Blazon

Per pale Argent and Vert to the dexter two pallets wavy Azure, to the sinister two pallets wavy Argent, a chief dancetty per pale Azure and Argent;

Symbolism

The two peaks refer to the two local mountains, Blackcomb and Whistler. The wavy stripes refer to ski/snowboard tracks, mountain bike trails and hiking trails on the mountains. The vertical division of the shield alludes to the fact that Whistler is both a winter and a summer resort.

Crest

Blazon

On a rock set with moss a grey jay close holding in its dexter claw a lupin proper;

Symbolism

The whiskey jack is a local bird known for its friendliness to humans. The lupine is a colourful local flower, and the rock alludes to the mountains.

Motto

Blazon

VALLEY OF DREAMS;

Symbolism

This phrase recognizes Whistler’s valley location as well as the fact that Whistler was built on a dream of hosting the Olympics.

Supporters

Blazon

Dexter a black bear sinister a hoary marmot each holding a ski and standing on a rocky mount proper issuant from barry wavy Argent and Azure charged with a trout naiant and between grass set with bunchberries and skunk cabbage proper;

Symbolism

The black bear and the hoary (or “whistling”) marmot are local animals, the latter being the source of the municipality’s name. The skis allude to the winter sports for which Whistler is famous. The rock represents the mountain and the grass and local plants represent the valley. The water and trout refer to local streams, ponds, lakes and the fact that Whistler began as a summer fishing lodge.

 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on October 22, 2016 in Volume 150, page 3149 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to the Resort Municipality of WhistlerLetters patent granting heraldic emblems to the Resort Municipality of Whistler

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Deputy Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter

Eva Pilar-Cass

Calligrapher

Shirley Mangione

Recipient Type

Civil Institution
Regional, Municipal etc Government