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Civic Heraldry of the United Kingdom
England
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BARKING AND DAGENHAM
Additions : Barking, Dagenham
Origin/meaning :
The arms were granted on September 1, 1965.
The representation of water (i.e. the wavy blue and white bands) represents the River Thames. The Borough is situated on the North bank of the Thames, which plays a considerable part in the industrial life of the district.
The sword and keys represent the patron saints of Peter and Paul (the patron
saints of the parish church of Dagenham).
The crossed crosiers and the lily stand for the Abbey of Barking (dissolved 1539) of whose manor the parishes of Barking & Dagenham formed a part.
The Barking Well Smack represents the ancient and important fishing industry at Barking.
The cog wheel signifies the industrial section of the Borough, whereas the sun denotes the progress of the district.
The Curfew Tower (which may still be seen at Barking) was used as a device in the arms of the old Urban District Council of Barking.
The lions holding torches were the supporters used to the former Borough of Barking Coat of Arms. They stood for the Cecil and Monteagle families and the torches represent the then two chief industries, namely gas and electricity.
Literature : Image and background provided by David Evans (devans@bardaglea.org.uk)
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