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Edmonton, Alberta
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
April 7, 1998
Vol. III, p. 233
Arms of John Wesley RichardsonBlazonOr on a bend Azure between in chief an oak tree eradicated Vert and in base a wooden staff and a claymore in saltire proper an antique crown of four points visible Argent; SymbolismThe six-pointed crown (four points of which are visible) refers to Mr. Richardson’s monarchist sympathies and to the six generations of Richardsons resident in Canada. The oak tree represents Mr. Richardson’s deep sense of family and his interest in genealogy. The wooden staff and claymore, placed in an X or saltire position that is reminiscent of the cross of St. Andrew, patron saint of Scotland, further allude to Mr. Richardson’s strong Scots lineage. To Mr. Richardson, the sword and the pilgrim’s staff are symbols of impartial truth and the quest for knowledge, and in this instance are direct allusions to his chosen profession of Chartered Accountancy. |
CrestBlazonUpon a circlet of trillium flowers Argent seeded Or leaved Vert alternating with wild rose flowers Rose seeded Or a unicorn forcene Sable unguled and horned Or gorged with a collar also Or and pendant therefrom a ruby Gules within a setting Or; SymbolismWisdom and knowledge are traits Mr. Richardson associates with unicorns, and these make further reference to his profession. Unicorns, as heraldic beasts employed in the national coats of arms of Canada, Scotland and the United Kingdom, refer to Mr. Richardson’s ancestral history and his present location. Emphasizing this connection, the flowered wreath is composed of wild roses and trilliums, the provincial flowers of Alberta and Ontario, where Mr. Richardson’s family was among the earliest settlers. The ruby pendant hanging from the unicorn’s neck refers to Mr. Richardson’s July birth. |
MottoBlazonDUTY · HONOUR · JUSTICE; SymbolismNot applicable |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of John Richardson and Graham Anderson, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterLinda Nicholson CalligrapherNancy Ellis Recipient TypeIndividual |