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.
Perth, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
May 24, 1995
Vol. III, p. 23
Arms of John Cameron CairnsBlazonPer saltire Azure and Argent four Canadian martlets counterchanged; SymbolismThe martlet is an element which appears in many Cairns arms. The martlets are drawn with the wings and tails forming a maple leaf and refer to the Canadian branch of the family. The birds are shown in flight and reflect Canon Cairns’s penchant for travel. The saltire pattern of the shield and the colours of blue and white allude to the Scottish birth of both his parents. The shield is ensigned with a black clerical hat with black cords and red tassels, denoting his degree of Priest and Canon. |
MottoBlazonVIRTUS EX ALTO; SymbolismMeaning “Power from on high”, this is taken from Luke 24:49 and emphasizes Canon Cairns’s vocation as priest and pays homage to his father’s long service with Northern Electric. |
Flag of John Cameron CairnsBlazonA banner of the Arms; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
Badge of John Cameron CairnsBlazonOn a Canadian martlet Azure a Celtic cross Argent; SymbolismThe martlet and Celtic cross repeat the themes of Canon Cairns’s Canadian and Scottish identity and his vocation. |
Crest of John Cameron CairnsBlazonThree mounds Argent masoned Azure a Canadian martlet Azure; SymbolismThe crest is a word-play on the name Cairns. It is to be used by Canon Cairns’s descendants. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on October 14, 1995 in Volume 129, page 3593 of the Canada Gazette.   |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept by Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority PainterJoan Ouellette CalligrapherNancy Ellis Recipient TypeIndividual |