John Cameron Cairns

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.

Perth, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
May 24, 1995
Vol. III, p. 23

Arms of John Cameron Cairns
Arms of John Cameron Cairns
Flag of John Cameron Cairns
Badge of John Cameron Cairns
Crest of John Cameron Cairns
 
Arms of John Cameron Cairns

Arms of John Cameron Cairns

Blazon

Per saltire Azure and Argent four Canadian martlets counterchanged;

Symbolism

The martlet is an element which appears in many Cairns arms. The martlets are drawn with the wings and tails forming a maple leaf and refer to the Canadian branch of the family. The birds are shown in flight and reflect Canon Cairns’s penchant for travel. The saltire pattern of the shield and the colours of blue and white allude to the Scottish birth of both his parents. The shield is ensigned with a black clerical hat with black cords and red tassels, denoting his degree of Priest and Canon.

Motto

Blazon

VIRTUS EX ALTO;

Symbolism

Meaning “Power from on high”, this is taken from Luke 24:49 and emphasizes Canon Cairns’s vocation as priest and pays homage to his father’s long service with Northern Electric.

Flag of John Cameron Cairns

Flag of John Cameron Cairns

Blazon

A banner of the Arms;

Symbolism

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.

Badge of John Cameron Cairns

Badge of John Cameron Cairns

Blazon

On a Canadian martlet Azure a Celtic cross Argent;

Symbolism

The martlet and Celtic cross repeat the themes of Canon Cairns’s Canadian and Scottish identity and his vocation.

Crest of John Cameron Cairns

Crest of John Cameron Cairns

Blazon

Three mounds Argent masoned Azure a Canadian martlet Azure;

Symbolism

The crest is a word-play on the name Cairns. It is to be used by Canon Cairns’s descendants.

 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on October 14, 1995 in Volume 129, page 3593 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to John Cameron CairnsLetters patent granting heraldic emblems to John Cameron Cairns

Additional Information

Creator(s)

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

Painter

Joan Ouellette

Calligrapher

Nancy Ellis

Recipient Type

Individual