Royal Heraldry Society of Canada / Société royale héraldique du Canada

The Royal Heraldry Society of Canada (RHSC; French: Société royale héraldique du Canada) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the study, promotion, and education of heraldry, with a particular emphasis on Canadian heraldry. Founded in 1966, the Society has played a significant role in fostering interest in heraldic arts and supporting the establishment of Canada’s own heraldic authority.

History

The organization was originally established as the Heraldry Society of Canada in October 1966 in Ottawa by a group of enthusiasts led by Lieutenant Commander Alan Beddoe. The founding meeting was held at the Beacon Arms Hotel and resulted in the creation of a formal board of officers and directors, with Beddoe serving as its first president. The Society sought to promote greater interest in heraldry among Canadians and to encourage the establishment of a Canadian Heraldic Authority (CHA) to oversee the granting of arms nationally.

On June 4, 1988, a milestone in Canadian heraldic history was reached when Prince Edward officially transferred the exercise of Her Majesty's heraldic prerogative in Canada to the Governor General, leading to the creation of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. The RHSC had been a driving force toward this achievement through its advocacy and educational efforts.

In 2002, the Society was granted royal patronage, which marked its renaming to the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada. The royal designation was proclaimed at the Society's annual meeting in Victoria, British Columbia, and the Society’s coat of arms was augmented with the Royal Crown. It is one of the few Canadian organizations to use a ceremonial mace, fashioned from pewter and wood with heraldic symbols, reflecting its traditions and ceremonial heritage.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada is to promote the art and science of heraldry, particularly within the Canadian context, and to cultivate public interest and understanding of heraldry throughout Canada. The Society provides education and resources for Canadians interested in acquiring properly granted coats of arms and supports heraldic scholarship.

The RHSC publishes a quarterly journal titled Heraldry in Canada, featuring scholarly and informative articles on various aspects of Canadian heraldry. The Society operates through regional branches and has members across all provinces and territories, as well as internationally.

Structure and Patronage

The Society operates as a federally incorporated nonprofit with charitable status in Canada. Its activities are conducted in both of Canada’s official languages, English and French. As of 2019, the RHSC had approximately 325 members.

The Society’s patron is Mary May Simon, Governor General of Canada, and its vice-patron is Beverley McLachlin, former Chief Justice of Canada. The RHSC’s leadership includes a president and other executive officers responsible for overseeing its programs and initiatives.

Significance

The Royal Heraldry Society of Canada remains a central institution in the promotion and development of heraldic tradition in Canada. Through its advocacy, education, and support for Canadian heraldic institutions, it has greatly contributed to the establishment and recognition of uniquely Canadian heraldic symbols and practices.

Summary Table

The Royal Heraldry Society of Canada continues to be an authoritative and educational body fostering heraldic knowledge, encouraging the use of heraldry, and preserving this unique cultural heritage within the Canadian context.[1][2][4]