Coat of arms of Peterborough, Ontario facts for kids
The coat of arms of Peterborough, Ontario, is a special symbol for the city. It was officially adopted on May 7, 1951. Peterborough is one of only a few cities in Canada that has a true coat of arms. This means it was designed and given by the College of Arms in England, which is like an official group that creates and approves these symbols. Having a coat of arms shows the city's history and values in a unique way.
Contents
Understanding the Shield
The main part of the coat of arms is the shield. It has a green background, which is called a 'field' in heraldry.
Green Background
The green color has a few meanings:
- It reminds us of the word "Champlain," referring to the explorer Samuel de Champlain's journey through the Peterborough area in 1615.
- It also points to Ireland, often called the "Emerald Isle." Many of the first Irish immigrants came to this area in 1825, led by Peter Robinson.
- The green also represents the many fields and forests around Peterborough.
Sword and Rivers
- A sword on the shield stands for the British soldiers and officers. They fought in wars like the Napoleonic Wars and the War of 1812. After these wars, they were given land in the Peterborough region to settle.
- The wavy blue and white lines show the Otonabee River, which flows right through the city. They also represent the many other lakes and rivers in the area.
The Crest: Beaver and Key
Above the shield, there is a special design called the crest. It sits on a twisted band of green and silver, which are the main colors of the shield.
- On the crest, you can see a Canadian beaver sitting on a log.
- The beaver holds a gold key pointing upwards and to the left. This key represents the key of Saint Peter. It is a tribute to the "Peter" in Peterborough's name. It also honors the Roman Catholic people who make up about a third of the city's population, including many of the early Irish immigrants.
Supporters of the Shield
On each side of the shield, there are figures called supporters. They represent the history and nature of Peterborough.
- On the left side, there is a stag. This animal symbolizes the beautiful natural surroundings of Peterborough.
- On the right side, there is a red lion. It has a golden crown around its neck, with a chain going over its back. This lion comes from the coat of arms of the Duke of Wellington. Many of the officers and soldiers who settled in the area served under him.
The Motto
Underneath the shield and its supporters, there is a green mound. This mound represents the peaceful countryside south of the city. Below this, you'll find Peterborough's motto: "Nature Provides, Industry Develops."
- This motto is written in Latin as Dat Natura, Elaborant Artes.
- It means that nature gives us many gifts, and the hard work and creativity of people help to develop and use these gifts.
Source: The City of Peterborough website
