Arms of James McGill
Arms of James McGill
Blazon
Argent three martlets, on a chief dancetty Gules a crescent Ermine between two ancient crowns Argent;
Symbolism
The Canadian Heraldic Authority does not have confirmed symbolism for this emblem. The following comments are hypotheses only. The three martlets and the combination of red and white are often found in Scottish McGill coats of arms. The crescent possibly alludes to a gorget, which Mr. McGill would have worn as part of the uniform of a senior officer in the Montréal Militia. The ermine refers to his occupation as a fur trader. The crowns and indented line might allude to Mount Royal, the location of McGill University, of which Mr. McGill was the benefactor.
Crest of James McGill
Blazon
A martlet supporting an open book palewise in profile proper bound and edged Gules;
Symbolism
The martlet alludes to those in the Arms, and the book indicates that Mr. McGill endowed a university.
Motto of James McGill
Blazon
IN DOMINO CONFIDAM;
Symbolism
This Latin phrase means “I will put my trust in the Lord.” It is a variation of the phrase In Domino confido, used by other McGill armigers and by McGill University.