Most local historians can readily tell you that Tavistock was founded in 1848. Many can also attest to Tavistock's date of incorporation in 1909. Tavistock's Crest is not so well known. You might think that this story begins in 1848 or 1909. You would be wrong. This story starts in January of 1949 when the Gazette ran an article that read as follows:

"Tavistock does not have an official Municipal Crest. In the opinion of many, this is regrettable but one Tavistonian has done something about it and suggested that others follow the lead. The Gazette is pleased to co-operate with the suggestion and, as an incentive, offers a cash prize of $5. The interested Tavistonian has submitted a rough sketch for an official Municipal Crest and the suggestion was that others be submitted for approval of the Tavistock Council."

Rules and regulations were set forth to ensure a fair contest. Ten sketches were submitted with each entrant receiving $1.

The winner was James Boyd, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Boyd, and a student at Stratford Collegiate. James' sketch featured the cairn erected in memory of Tavistock's founder, Captain Henry Eckstein, along with maple leaves.

The "interested Tavistonian" who got the ball rolling was never named. Might you know?

This crest with the cairn, designed by a schoolboy as part of a $5 contest, was our official emblem until 1968 when the Village Council adopted the current more imposing Coat of Arms.