Series 301 - Grant of arms for the Australian National University

Identity area

Reference code

AU ANUA 301

Title

Grant of arms for the Australian National University

Date(s)

  • 1954 (Creation)

Level of description

Series

Extent and medium

0.5 m (1 non-standard box in fire-proof cylinder)

Context area

Name of creator

(1946 -)

Biographical history

The Australian National University was established by an Act of the Federal Parliament in 1946 and is governed by a Council. Its founding mission was to be of enduring significance in the post-war life of the nation, to support the development of national unity and identity, to improve Australia's understanding of itself and its neighbours, and to contribute to economic development and social cohesion. Its mandate was to undertake 'postgraduate research and study both generally and in relation to subjects of national importance'. This national mission gives the University a distinctive relationship with the Australian Federal Government. It was Australia's only full-time research university with four initial Research Schools (Physical Sciences, Medical Research, Social Sciences and Pacific Studies). Undergraduate courses have been taught since 1960, when it amalgamated with Canberra University College.

Content and structure area

Scope and content

The grant of arms is addressed to the Vice-Chancellor Sir Douglas Copland and issued by the College of Heralds. It includes an illustration of the University’s coat of arms and a description of it in heraldic terms: ‘Per chevron Azure and Barry wavy of eight Argent and of the last a Boomerang chevronwise Or in sinister chief five Stars representing the Constellation of the Southern Cross also Argent’. It is dated 6 July 1954 and signed by the Garter Principal King of Arms, the Clarenceux King of Arms and the Norroy and Ulster King of Arms whose seals are attached and enclosed in metal cases.

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Conditions governing access

Open access but care is needed as document is rolled and has seal cases attached; transcript and photographic copies should be used where possible

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Finding aids

Transcript of document on file ANUA 53, 2.2.1.2, Part 4 and on series file

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Existence and location of copies

Related units of description

Relevant files at ANUA 53, 2.2.1.2, Parts 1–5 and envelopes, including colour photographs and transcript. Black and white photographs at ANUA 15, Envelope 141.

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Dates of creation revision deletion

Prepared by Maggie Shapley on 23 April 2008

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