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.
Richmond, British Columbia
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badges, with differences to Brendan Kevin Murdoch and Sabrina Michelle Murdoch
March 15, 2021
Vol. VII, p. 343
Arms of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonBendy sinister Gules and Sable, a claymore palewise point in base its guard Argent, hilted, pommeled and surmounted by two quills in saltire Or; SymbolismRed and black are Mr. Murdoch’s favourite colours. The diagonal stripes starting in the upper right—called “bendy sinister” in the language of heraldry—allude to what he considers his sinister sense of humour. The quills symbolize Mr. Murdoch’s love of writing and calligraphy. The claymore sword represents his Scottish ancestry. Pointing down in a resting position behind the two quills, it expresses one of Mr. Murdoch’s favourite sayings, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” |
CrestBlazonA raven rising wings displayed Sable semé of stellar lights and transfixed through the breast by an arrow bendwise sinister Argent feathered Gules; SymbolismThe raven shot by an arrow alludes to the crest of the Scottish Murdoch families, which, according to legend, refers to a young man named Murdoch demonstrating his skill in archery by shooting ravens with an arrow. For Mr. Murdoch, the raven also symbolizes overcoming adversity by trying to fly despite injury. The stellar lights represent his passion for science fiction and his volunteer work in that field, organizing events and writing for fanzines. |
MottoBlazonÈIRICH; SymbolismMeaning “Arise,” this Scottish Gaelic phrase alludes to overcoming adversity, such as in Mr. Murdoch’s work of assisting those recovering from brain and physical injury to safely operate a motor vehicle again. |
Flag of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Badge of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonThe raven from the Crest perched on a scroll Gules inscribed with the Motto in letters Argent; SymbolismThe raven and arrow repeat the symbolism of the Crest, reinforced here with the Motto. |
Badge of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonA rustre bendy sinister Gules and Sable; SymbolismThe pierced lozenge—called a “rustre” in the language of blazon—is a relatively rare heraldic charge particularly appreciated by Mr. Murdoch; it alludes to his long-standing interest in heraldry and his great delight in what is uncommon. |
Differenced Arms for Brendan Kevin Murdoch, child of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonThe Arms of Andrew Colin Murdoch debruised of a three-point label Argent during his father’s lifetime; This individual will inherit the Arms of the Recipient following his death; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Differenced Arms for Sabrina Michelle Murdoch, child of Andrew Colin MurdochBlazonThe Arms of Andrew Colin Murdoch bendy sinister Gules and Purpure in place of Gules and Sable; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on December 11, 2021 in Volume 155, page 5668 of the Canada Gazette.     |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Andrew Colin Murdoch, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterIlona Jurkiewicz CalligrapherDoris Wionzek Recipient TypeIndividual |