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.
Montréal, Quebec
Registration of Arms
December 15, 2020
Vol. VII, p. 309
Arms of James McGillBlazonArgent three martlets, on a chief dancetty Gules a crescent Ermine between two ancient crowns Argent; SymbolismThe Canadian Heraldic Authority does not have confirmed symbolism for this emblem. The following comments are hypotheses only. The three martlets and the combination of red and white are often found in Scottish McGill coats of arms. The crescent possibly alludes to a gorget, which Mr. McGill would have worn as part of the uniform of a senior officer in the Montréal Militia. The ermine refers to his occupation as a fur trader. The crowns and indented line might allude to Mount Royal, the location of McGill University, of which Mr. McGill was the benefactor. |
CrestBlazonA martlet supporting an open book palewise in profile proper bound and edged Gules; SymbolismThe martlet alludes to those in the Arms, and the book indicates that Mr. McGill endowed a university. |
MottoBlazonIN DOMINO CONFIDAM; SymbolismThis Latin phrase means “I will put my trust in the Lord.” It is a variation of the phrase In Domino confido, used by other McGill armigers and by McGill University. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on March 27, 2021 in Volume 155, page 1320 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Not Available. PainterCourt of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh / Cour du roi d’armes Lord Lyon, Édimbourg CalligrapherNot applicable Recipient TypeIndividual Other InformationThe recipient’s emblems were originally recorded in the records of the Court of the Lord Lyon, Edinburgh, Scotland, 29 March 1957. |