Mayor's Chain of Office

For over a thousand years originating with the Dukes of Normandy, civic authorities have borne an official seal incorporating the arm of 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. Although decorative, the practice of wearing a Chain of Office has become steeped in historic tradition, and is one, which is followed not only by elected officials but by the executives of civic organizations as well. A modern Chain of Office is composed of several elements joined together with pieces of chain from which hangs a medallion. Chains of Office are almost always sewn onto a velvet collar, which is not only decorative but makes the chain much more comfortable to wear.

The Morden Chain of Office was donated by the Morden and District Chamber of Commerce at their banquet on Friday February 16, 2007 to commemorate Morden’s 125 th Anniversary and was accepted by His Worship Douglas Wilson.

The Chain of Office was designed by the Chamber of Commerce Executive and was beautifully handcrafted by International Coats of Arms, Kingston, Ontario. It incorporates images representing Morden – Past and Present

  • Morden Logo – See History Unfold; flanked on both sides by a replica Topaz and Ruby symbolizing Corn and Apples;
  • Morden Rose symbolizing Morden’s Horticultural contributions;
  • Manitoba Bison;
  • Bühler Auger symbolizing Morden’s Manufacturing sector;
  • Corn and Apple symbolizing Morden’s signature Festival and our Agricultural Heritage;
  • Sports – Curling, hockey, golf and baseball;
  • Musical notes and Harp symbolizing the contributions of Morden’s Arts Community;
  • Mosasaur Skull symbolizing Morden’s ancient history and our Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre;
  • Wheel from the HMS Morden Corvette symbolizing Morden’s Military contributions;

Each Medallion is joined by chain and a Canadian Maple Leaf, and is sewn on a collar of royal blue velvet.

It is the intention of the Morden and District Chamber of Commerce members that this Chain of Office will be worn with pride in the community in which we live and work. It acknowledges the responsibilities, authority and dignity, which are attached to the Office of the Mayor of Morden.