Help Shape the Future of the City of St. Thomas Flag

The City of St. Thomas is inviting members of the community to share their thoughts on an important symbol of civic pride - the City flag.

A short online survey is now open to gather public feedback on the current design and explore whether it continues to reflect the values, identity, and aspirations of St. Thomas.

Why Now?

The City’s current flag was designed and granted by the College of Arms in 1976, alongside the official coat of arms. At that time, it was adopted to honour the city’s history and symbolize its unique identity.

In 2017, St. Thomas introduced a refreshed corporate brand - including new colours, graphics, and design standards - to reflect the City’s modern direction. However, the City flag was not updated as part of that process.

In May 2025, City Council authorized staff to explore the potential for a new or revised flag design. This work includes consultation with the College of Arms to understand what changes, if any, would be permissible under heraldic law, and how they might align with the City’s current visual identity.

Community feedback is a key part of this process. Your input will help guide next steps and ensure any future decision is rooted in local perspectives.

The Story Behind the Current Flag

The current flag of St. Thomas is steeped in history and symbolism. It was created in partnership with the College of Arms and formally adopted through By-Law 34-77.

Each element represents a part of the City’s heritage and identity:

  • Light Green Background: Symbolizes growth, vitality, and renewal.

  • Carpenter’s Square: Represents Saint Thomas the Apostle, the patron saint of builders, and reflects the City’s namesake and progressive spirit.

  • Three Maple Leaves: Express loyalty to Canada, the Crown, and all levels of government.

Seven-Spoke Cartwheel: Signifies both the City’s legacy as a rail and automotive centre and the seven historic townships of Elgin County: Aldborough, Bayham, Dunwich, Malahide, South Dorchester, Southwold, and Yarmouth.

Have Your Say

Whether you have a strong connection to the current flag or believe it may be time to consider a new design, we want to hear from you.

Take the City Flag Survey (closing on August 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.)

Your voice will help ensure that any decisions reflect the community’s vision and values.


Related: History of the City Crest and Seal

In 1976, the City of St. Thomas was granted and assigned the Arms and Crest by Earl Marshall and Heredity Marshall of the College of Arms to be borne and used forever thereafter on seals or otherwise according to the Laws of Arms. Council adopted the grant of arms and corporate seal by By-Law 34-77. 

City Crest 

The crest is topped by Colonel Talbot's hound, which stands on a crown. The sides represent the symbolic city walls, while the helmet is standard in most coats of arms. The shield displays a carpenter’s square, symbolizing Saint Thomas as the patron saint of builders. The three maple leaves represent the loyalty of the citizens to Canada, the Queen, and the City. The wheel, with seven spokes, symbolizes both the seven townships of the surrounding County and the city’s historical role as a center of progress, particularly in the railroad and automotive industries. 

The City Crest, including its motto, has been replicated and continues to be used on official badges, plaques, pins, decals, binders, and certificates.  

City Seal 

By-Law 34-77 states that the seal of the City Corporation shall be in the form shown here, replicating the crest.