Hitchin

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HITCHIN (Urban Disctrict Council)

Incorporated into: 1974 North Hertfordshire

Official blazon

Arms : Gules on a Fesse arched and embattled Argent between in chief a Lion passant guardant and in base a Sheaf of Barley Or a Fleshing Knife fesseswise proper.
Crest : On a Wreath of the Colours two Shepherds' Crooks in saltire pendent therefrom at the point of intersection by the ring a Fleece all proper.
Motto: 'ET PATRIBUS ET POSTERITATI' - Both for our ancestors and our prosperity.

Origin/meaning

The arms were officially granted on November 25, 1936.

The lion alludes to the district's connection to the Crown, as a Royal Manor. The fleshing knife is a reference to the old tanning industry, and the sheaf of barley refers to the town's ancient malting activities.

The crooks allude to farming and agricultural interests, while the fleece recalls to old woollen industry.