Local lord gives talk at historic library
Heraldry was the subject of a recent talk at Perthshire’s historic Innerpeffray Library.
On Wednesday, June 14, Friends of Innerpeffray Library (FOIL) members were treated to a very entertaining talk by Dr Joseph Morrow, the current Lord Lyon King of Arms.
This role, one of the Great Offices of State, dates back to at least the 14th Century and the incumbent is responsible for overseeing all matters relating to Scottish heraldry and coats of arms.
Dr Morrow’s lifelong passion for heraldry was clear to see as he guided the audience into deciphering the symbolism used to read the history of several coats of arms.
Although the practice of heraldry has a long and illustrious history, Dr Morrow was keen to point out that the custom persists – one of his responsibilities is to judge whether a new coat of arms can be granted and recorded in the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland which contains an official copy of every coat of arms granted in Scotland since 1672.
Another is to prosecute individuals and organisations using unauthorised arms.
Audience members were amused to hear that the Lord Lyon also has the right to expunge the arms of individuals who have fallen into disrepute.
Dr Morrow also demonstrated that many of the clubs and societies established by Scots throughout the world also have Scottish coats of arms which created an excellent link to the subsequent FOIL talk, on July 19 about the Diaspora Tapestry, which was displayed at Morrison’s Academy in Crieff.
The Friends of Innerpeffray Library meets every month at Innerpeffray Library.
The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, August 9 when Sally-Ann Huxtable will talk on the Art and Design of Phoebe Anna Traquair.
Further details of the 2017 programme can be found at www. friendsofinnerpeffraylibrary.com Dr Morrow