The University of Western Ontario

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.

London, Ontario
Grant of Arms
January 15, 2014
Vol. VI, p. 324

Arms of The University of Western Ontario
Arms of The University of Western Ontario
 
Arms of The University of Western Ontario

Arms of The University of Western Ontario

Blazon

Per saltire Purpure and Argent in chief an open book proper edged and clasped Or in fess two hurts that to the dexter charged with a demi-stag contourné Argent that to the sinister charged with a demi-lion double-queued Ermine ducally crowned and in base a maple leaf, on a chief Or a sun rising Gules;

Symbolism

Purple and white are the university’s colours. The open book is a symbol of education, and the maple leaf refers to Canada. The stag is one of the supporters of the coat of arms used by the city of London, Ontario, since 1840. The double-tailed crowned lion in ermine is taken from the arms used by the Rev. Canon Alfred Peache, an early benefactor of the university. The rising sun symbolizes the aspirations of young graduates.

Crest

Blazon

In front of a branch of maple Gules an open book proper edged and clasped Or;

Symbolism

The branch of maple and the open book are Canadian and educational references.

Motto

Blazon

VERITAS ET UTILITAS;

Symbolism

This Latin phrase means “Truth and usefulness”.

Supporters

Blazon

Dexter a moose, sinister a lynx Or;

Symbolism

The moose and lynx are Canadian animals, the moose being one of the supporters of the arms of Ontario.
 

Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the letters patent was made on October 25, 2014 in Volume 148, page 2733 of the Canada Gazette.

Letters patent granting heraldic emblems to The University of Western Ontario (Western University)

Additional Information

Creator(s)

Original concept of the heralds of the College of Arms, London (1931), with revisions by the University of Western Ontario (2011), assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter

Gordon Macpherson

Calligrapher

Luc Saucier

Recipient Type

Civil Institution
University

Other Information

The recipient's emblems were originally recorded in the Public Register of Arms, Flag and Badges of Canada, Vol. II, page 287.
View all letters patent