Township of King > Government > Mayor & Council > Mayor's Chain of Office
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Mayor's Chain of Office
Mayor's Chain of Office 

 

The Tradition of the Chain of Office

A tradition originating with the Dukes of Normandy, civic authorities have borne an official seal incorporating the arms of the authority. The seal was originally worn on a gold chain around the neck of the chief official. This 'decoration' has evolved into the modern Chain of Office.

The modern Chain of Office is composed of several elements linked together with pieces of chain, from which hangs a medallion. Chains of Office are usually sewn onto a velvet collar which is not only decorative, but makes the chain more comfortable to wear.

Upon inauguration of a new Mayor for the Township of King, the Chain of Office is symbollically placed around the Mayor's neck. The Mayor wears the Chain of Office to all Council meetings and ceremonial occasions when appearing in his official capacity, as a mark of pride in the municipality in which we live. The Chain of Office represents the responsibilities, authority and dignity which are attached to the office of the Mayor.

What do the symbols on the Mayor's Chain of Office represent?

  • Starting at the left shoulder, the first medallion honours the Welsh and English pioneers of the area with the Leek and the Rose.
  • The second medallion recognizes the large equestrian interest in the community.
  • The plates which follow are inscribed with the names of five of the communities now incorporated into the Township of King: Laskay, Snowball, Ansnorveldt, Kettleby, Schomberg.
  • The next medallion on the left is the Flower of Ontario - the "Trillium".
  • The large pendant bears the Crest for the 'new' Township of King. The Crest features a plate depicting a Crown for "King", a Sheaf of Wheat, Hills and Rivers and a Beaver symbolizing the various activities of the area.
  • Continuing up the right side, the first medallion is the Trillium, and then the Ontario Coat of Arms surrounded by Maple Leaves.
  • Corresponding with the left side are the names of the five remaining communities also incorporated into the Township of King, making a total of ten: Nobleton, Lloydtown, Strange, Pottageville and King City.
  • The next medallion honours Agriculture and consists of a Corn Stalk, a Pumpkin and a Pear.
  • The last medallion on the right side again honours the area pioneers, this time the Irish and the Scottish with a Shamrock and Thistle.