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, Supporters, Flag and Badge
September 16, 2002
Vol. IV, p. 237
Arms of The St. George's Society of TorontoBlazonArgent a cross cotised by eight demi maple leaves Gules; SymbolismThe central symbol makes a clear reference to the traditional symbol of St. George, a red cross on white, differenced by the addition of the split maple leaves, indicating the Society's position as the premier organization dedicated to St. George in Canada. This is the first time maple leaves have been used in this way, and they were inspired in part by the armorial bearings of the St. George's Society of New York. |
CrestBlazonA demi figure of St. George in armour affronté proper nimbed Or holding in the dexter hand a maple leaf Gules and a rose Argent and in the sinister hand a rose Gules and a trillium Argent; SymbolismThe use of St. George habited as a late medieval knight is easily recognizable in Western art. Here he is holding several floral symbols: the red maple leaf of Canada, the white trillium of Ontario, and white and red roses, which refer not only to England but to Toronto (the white rose is associated with York, the early 19th-century name of Toronto) and the Red Rose Ball, a major social event held by the Society. |
MottoBlazonALWAYS LOYAL; SymbolismThis phrase was chosen by the Society as a statement of enduring fidelity to its roots. |
SupportersBlazonDexter a lion, sinister a bear, each Argent and gorged with a collar of maple leaves Gules and standing on a grassy mound Vert set with maple leaves, maple seeds, oak leaves and acorns Or; SymbolismThe lion makes a reference to England, and the bear is based on one of the supporters of the arms of the City of Toronto, and is thus a local reference. Their collars of maple leaves repeat the symbolism of the arms. The oak leaves, acorns, and maple seeds on the ground further combine Canadian and English symbolism, with indications of renewal. |
Flag of The St. George's Society of TorontoBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Badge of The St. George's Society of TorontoBlazonOn a plate a cross Gules, encircled alternately by Tudor roses and trillium flowers proper; SymbolismThe symbol of St. George is surrounded by trillium flowers, indicative of Ontario, and Tudor roses, a traditional English symbol that also combines the white rose of York (Toronto) with the red rose used by the Society. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on December 20, 2003 in Volume 137, page 3980 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority PainterLinda Nicholson CalligrapherSuzzann Wright Recipient TypeCivil Institution
|