Ceremonial Objects of the SAA
Many objects are included in the Heritage Collections of our legislatures, from fine art and furniture, to sculpture and ceremonial objects, including these carried by the Sergeant-at-Arms
SAA sword
Sword of the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons
Sword Name: “SAA”, maker unknown (England), circa 1840
The SAA sword is the second oldest object in the House of Commons Heritage Collection, after the Gaunt sword which dates to circa 1780. The SAA sword was acquired by the House of Commons in 1945. It has been in use by the Sergeant-at-Arm since 1978:
- Major-General Cloutier 1978-2005
- Audrey O’Brien (Acting) 2005-2006
- Kevin Vickers 2006-2014
- Patrick McDonell 2019-present
The Gaunt sword is no longer in use, due to its fragility.
The SAA sword is a cut steel court sword with three-fold blade. The detailed and delicate etching on both sides of the blade extends from the tang towards the middle of the blade. The blade is 78cm long and 1.1 cm wide while the hilt is 17cm long and 10.5cm wide.
The SAA sword also features a cut steel hilt comprised of faceted rivets arranged in a central circular pattern and two cross patterns, repeated on the top and underside. The cut steel turn-down shell guard located below the hilt, features vertical striations and is faceted with the same rivets as the hilt.
Solingen sword
Sword of the Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons
Sword Name: “Solingen”
Maker:
- Blade: WKC, Solingen, Germany
- Hilt: Donald Spratling Designs, Toronto, Canada
Date: circa 1990
Used by: Deputy SAA
History:
- Purchased circa 1990.
- It is a dress sword.
- Hilt and Scabbard mounts are metal with nickel plate. Stainless steel blade.
- Is the Deputy Sgt-at-Arms sword and has been used by successive Deputy Sgt-at-Arms since circa 1990.
Crisp sword
Sword of the Assistant Deputy Sgt-at-Arms of the House of Commons
Sword Name: “Crisp”
Quantity: 3 identical swords
Maker: Crisp & Sons, Sword Cutlers, England
Date: 2009
Used by: Assistant Deputy SAA’s
History:
- These 3 swords are the newest to join the swords of the House of Commons Heritage Collection.
- Commissioned and purchased in 2009 with the assistance of Curatorial Services.
- Made specifically and exclusively for the House of Commons of Canada.
- Are dress swords.
- Hilt and Scabbard mounts are brass with silver plate. High carbon steel blade.
- Purchased for use by the Assistant Deputy Sgt-at-Arms and related Sergeants.