Symbolism of the Arms
The heraldic symbols being presented by The Chief
Herald of Canada today are a new expression within a centuries old art
form drawing together elements from the unique natural and historical
heritage of Penticton.
The Shield
The shield symbolizes the City's beautiful setting
and fine climate, with the gold sun shining in the sky and across the
lakes to create sparkling water across the gold sands of the beaches.
The Crest
(shown above the shield) The traditional steel helmet
of heraldry is fitted with cloth mantling of blue and gold in the principal
colours of the shield. Here the helmet can represent the determination
of citizens to uphold the spirit and honour of the City. The lower part
of the crest is composed of an open crown of metal in gold a peach tree
rising from it. The open crown has a frieze of geese.
The main idea of the crest is to symbolize the importance
of the land as the basis for the City's growth and prosperity The specific
references are local hills rising to the mountains of the Valley represented
in the "peaks" of the coronet The Canada geese are one of several references
to the City's rich natural heritage.
The dominant symbol is the single peach tree referring
to the historic orchard industry and community spirit of Penticton exemplified
in the annual Peach Festival. As well, in many native cultures, a single
tree is an important symbol representing the tree of life; both the journey
of humans through life and the sustenance received from the plants and
the creatures of the earth.
 Top
Compartment and Supporters
The California quail, a very distinctive bird found
locally, emphasizes the City's natural richness while Ogopogo, is the
famous mythic lake creature. The compartment on which they rest highlights
the importance of the beach lands and the two lakes - Okanagan with waves
and calmer waters of Skaha. The growing importance of viticulture is also
emphasized through the use of the grapes and grape leaves. The historic
Kettle Valley Railway is honoured through the steam locomotive wheel on
the quail while the S.S. Sicamous is represented by the ship's wheel on
Ogopogo.
Motto
As chosen by the City "A Place To Stay Forever".
Flag
The flag is composed of the elements of the shield
in rectangular form.
Badge
The combines of the wheel of the SS Sicamous with a
golden peach and the waters of the Lake.
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