John Harvard

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.

Winnipeg, Manitoba
Grant of Arms and Supporters
June 15, 2005
Vol. IV, p. 507

Arms of John Harvard
Arms of John Harvard
 
Arms of John Harvard

Arms of John Harvard

Blazon

Gyronny of twelve Gules and Argent, a roundel counterchanged;

Symbolism

Red and white are colours favoured by Their Honours (the Hon. John Harvard and his wife, Lenore Berscheid), and are also the colours of Canada. The design makes visual allusions to values that are particularly important to them. The alternately coloured segments meeting in the centre refer to diversity and multiculturalism. They can be seen as coming together, but also as reaching out, thus alluding to His Honour’s commitment (as broadcast journalist, M.P., and Lieutenant Governor) to helping those otherwise forgotten. The circle can refer to a round table, indicative of equality and involvement of all. The twelve segments are those of the hours of a clock, showing that watching time was vital in His Honour’s original career as a radio journalist. The symbolism of time also connects to His Honour’s interest in studying history.

Crest

Blazon

The statue Eternal Youth, known as “Golden Boy”, by George Gardet, Or;

Symbolism

The “Golden Boy” statue is a well-known symbol of Manitoba and underlines His Honour’s parliamentary role.

Motto

Blazon

SUPPORT THE PUBLIC GOOD;

Symbolism

This sentence indicates Their Honours' commitment to public service.

Supporters

Blazon

Two sandhill cranes Argent crested Gules beaked and membered Sable standing on a rocky mound Argent issuant from a base tapissé of wheat Or;

Symbolism

The sandhill crane is a bird found in Manitoba. The rocky base refers to the Canadian Shield and thus to Her Honour’s birthplace of Bisset in the northern region of Manitoba, while the wheat field refers to the fact that His Honour grew up on a farm in the Rural Municipality of South Cypress, in the south west of the province.
 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on March 4, 2006 in Volume 140, page 430 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to John HarvardLetters patent granting heraldic emblems to John Harvard

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of Bruce Patterson, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter

Linda Nicholson

Calligrapher

Doris Wionzek

Recipient Type

Individual

Special Designation

Lieutenant Governor