Arms of the City of Peterborough
Arms of the City of Peterborough
Blazon
Vert a sword point downwards Argent pommel and hilt Or surmounted by a fess barry wavy of six Argent and Azure;
Symbolism
The green background represents the forests around Peterborough and also commemorates the Irish settlers who were among its first residents. The plain green field (champ plain in French) is also a reference to Samuel de Champlain, who was the first European explorer to visit the region. The sword honours the British soldiers who settled in the area after the Napoleonic Wars and the War of 1812. The white and blue wavy stripes represent the Otonabee River and the lakes and waterways of the area.
Crest of the City of Peterborough
Blazon
Upon a log of wood fesswise a beaver proper grasping with the sinister paw a key ward upwards Or and to the sinister;
Symbolism
The beaver is a symbol of Canada. The key represents Saint Peter and the Catholic faith of the Irish settlers. It also refers to the city’s founder, Peter Robinson, who gave his name to the town.
Motto of the City of Peterborough
Blazon
DAT NATURA ELABORANT ARTES;
Symbolism
This Latin phrase means “Nature provides, industry develops.”
Supporters of the City of Peterborough
Blazon
On a grassy mound Vert dexter a stag proper and sinister a lion Gules gorged with an Eastern crown and chain reflexed over the back Or;
Symbolism
The stag represents the wildlife of the region and is also found in the arms used by people with the surname Robinson. The red lion is one of the supporters of the arms of the Duke of Wellington, under whose command many of the soldier settlers fought. The green of the field alludes to the Irish settlers.
