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
Registration of Arms and Supporters
October 20, 2023
Vol. VIII, p. 221
Arms of Roy Herbert ThomsonBlazonArgent a stag’s head caboshed proper, on a chief Azure a hunting horn Argent stringed Gules between two mullets Argent; SymbolismThe stag’s head on white and the blue chief are commonly found in Scottish Thomson arms. The stag’s head replaces the moose’s head in Mr. Thomson’s 1958 grant of arms. The hunting horn alludes to communications and thus refers to Mr. Thomson’s status as a media magnate. |
CrestBlazonA beaver sejant erect proper playing a hunting horn Argent slung over his dexter shoulder by a ribbon of the Thomson tartan; SymbolismThe beaver symbolizes Mr. Thomson’s Canadian origins, while the tartan celebrates his Scottish ancestry. The horn repeats the symbolism of the Arms. |
MottoBlazonNEVER A BACKWARD STEP; SymbolismThis sentiment possibly refers to the hard work and drive that Mr. Thomson used to build up his many businesses. |
SupportersBlazonDexter a Mississauga warrior holding a bow, sinister a shepherd vested of the Thomson tartan kilt and a bonnet and holding a shepherd’s crook, both standing on a grassy mount proper; SymbolismThe Canadian Heraldic Authority does not have confirmed symbolism for this emblem. The following comments are hypotheses only. The Mississauga warrior represents Southern Ontario since Mr. Thomson lived in Mississauga and his business headquarters were based in Toronto. The shepherd is another allusion to his Scottish ancestry. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationSince 2023, grants, registrations and approvals of heraldic emblems are no longer announced in the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of the Court of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh. PainterCourt of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh / Cour du roi d’armes Lord Lyon, Édimbourg CalligrapherNot applicable Recipient TypeIndividual Other InformationThe recipient’s emblems were originally recorded in the records of the Court of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh, Scotland, 25 May 1965. |