Dunham, Quebec
The Flag of Dunham, Quebec
The flag of Dunham, Quebec, is a distinctive symbol that encapsulates the town's history, geography, and cultural heritage. Located in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, Dunham is a community with deep ties to its past, reflected in the heraldic design of its flag and coat of arms. The flag, which is derived from the arms of Dunham, is rich with symbolic meaning and celebrates various aspects of the town's identity.
The flag is a Canadian pale style with green sides and a white centre. The white centre includes the cities coat-of-arms with the town name above it. The shield of the arms is divided into four quarters. The first quarter of the coat of arms features three green trefoils on a silver (argent) background. This image is a tribute to Sir Thomas Dunn, the town's namesake, who was of Irish origin. The trefoil is a symbol often associated with Ireland, and its presence in Dunham's arms honors the town's connection to its Irish heritage through Dunn. This emblem ties the town’s roots to a broader cultural history, marking the influence of Irish settlers in the area.
The second quarter of the arms shows a gold (or) fleur-de-lis on a blue (azure) field. The fleur-de-lis is a well-known symbol of French heritage, specifically recalling the province of Quebec. This element of the arms emphasizes Dunham’s location within Quebec and its historical ties to French Canadian culture. It reinforces the town's identity within the broader cultural context of the province, symbolizing the French-Canadian roots of the region.
In the third quarter, the arms feature a tree on a green (vert) background. The tree symbolizes the enchanting natural beauty of Dunham, which is nestled in the Eastern Townships, known for its scenic landscapes and lush forests. This symbol serves as a reminder of the town's stunning environment and the deep connection its residents have to the land.
The fourth quarter depicts a silver (argent) barbel, a type of fish, on a blue (azure) field. This fish represents Lake Selby, a 1,200-hectare lake located near Dunham. The barbel, an heraldic fish, is used here to symbolize the importance of Lake Selby to the town, particularly its role in the local ecosystem and economy. It highlights the town’s relationship with its waterways and the natural resources that surround it.
Above the shield sits a mural crown, an element of heraldry specifically reserved for towns. The mural crown, in gold (or), signifies Dunham's status as a town. This crown is a traditional symbol of civic authority and reflects Dunham's governance and autonomy.
The arms are supported by two crossed autumn maple branches, which further solidify the town’s connection to Canada. The maple leaf is a national symbol of Canada, and its use here celebrates the town's place within the larger Canadian identity.
Lastly, the arms are inscribed with the Latin motto "ADVITAS ET VOLUNTAS," which translates to "Vivid Desire and Willingness." This motto embodies the town’s spirit, reflecting the community’s commitment to progress, vitality, and a strong will to move forward together.
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