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.
Hamilton, Ontario
Registration of Arms and Badge
November 8, 1995
Vol. III, p. 66
Arms of Alaric John Martin WoodrowBlazonPer bend Azure semy of cross-crosslets fitchy Or and an estoile Or and Argent barry dancetty each point double barbed Azure overall a bend Gules charged with a sword blade proper enflamed also proper hilt, quillions and pommel also Or; SymbolismThe estoile or star evokes the HMCS Star, at Hamilton, Ontario, where both Alaric and his son Michael served, where both of his sons, Andrew and Michael, were christened and where Mr. Woodrow wed his wife, Beverly Woodrow née Walker. The cross crosslets honour other ancient Woodrow arms. The fir tree-like markings create a play on the family name Wood-row. Fire, an ancient symbol of knowledge, here co-joined with a sword, itself a symbol of armed service, supplies two symbolic expressions for Mr. Woodrow. First, it evokes the flaming sword mentioned in Genesis 3:24 suggesting the responsibility that comes with knowledge and secondly, it evokes Mr. Woodrow’s twin careers of teacher and naval officer. |
CrestBlazonA lion sejeant erect Azure crowned with a naval crown Or holding in the dexter foreclaws a mace Argent; SymbolismThe lion, naval crown and mace are all symbols of service and evoke Mr. Woodrow’s educational and naval public service. The red and white of the wreath and mantling are the colours of Mr. Woodrow’s two homes, England and Canada. |
MottoBlazonAUT VIAM INVENIAM AUT FACIAM; SymbolismThis Latin phrase means “I’ll either find a way or make one.” |
Badge of Alaric John Martin WoodrowBlazonWithin a triquetra of rope Azure three anchors flukes inward Or; SymbolismThis unending knot also known as a triquetra is a symbol of both infinity and the Trinity. Anchors are a longstanding symbol of hope. Together the knot and anchors form a badge that recalls naval service. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on November 23, 1996 in Volume 130, page 3279 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Not applicable PainterNot applicable CalligrapherNot applicable Recipient TypeIndividual Other InformationThe recipient’s emblems were originally recorded in the records of the College of Arms, London, England, 11 May 1992. |