Halvor William Moorshead

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.

Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
December 15, 2003
Vol. IV, p. 340

Arms of Halvor William Moorshead
Arms of Halvor William Moorshead
 
Arms of Halvor William Moorshead

Arms of Halvor William Moorshead

Blazon

Gules a maple tree eradicated between three mullets Argent;

Symbolism

The colours red and white are Canada’s national colours and represent Mr. Moorshead’s service to his adopted country, as does the maple tree. These two colours are also found in the flags of the United States and Norway, symbolizing other aspects of Mr. Moorshead’s family heritage. The tree is the tree of life, often a favourite symbol for those deeply involved in genealogical pursuits; in Mr. Moorshead’s case through research and publishing. The stars are a second reference to his American ancestry.

Crest

Blazon

A demi lion Azure holding in its dexter paw a scroll Argent;

Symbolism

The lion represents Mr. Moorshead’s roots in Norway, the strength of his service to the community and his education in Britain. The use of blue for the lion is meant to complement the red and white of the arms. Together, these colours allude to the flags of the United Kingdom, the United States, and Norway. The scroll symbolizes Mr. Moorshead’s long involvement with publishing, most recently in the area of popularizing genealogical research.

Motto

Blazon

GORDHYANS HA LENDURY;

Symbolism

This Cornish motto means “Honour and honesty”, two concepts which are important in Mr. Moorshead’s professional and personal life. Having the motto in Cornish is a reference to a particular part of his English heritage.

 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on March 12, 2005 in Volume 139, page 687 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to Halvor William MoorsheadLetters patent granting heraldic emblems to Halvor William Moorshead

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority

Painter

David Farrar

Calligrapher

Shirley Mangione

Recipient Type

Individual