Commissioner unveils Order of Yukon design, personal Coat of Arms and new exhibit at the Taylor House

The long awaited design of the Order of Yukon was unveiled today in the front yard of the Taylor House. The design incorporates the Yukon Crest over a fireweed on a ribbon in the colours of the flag of Yukon.

The Order of Yukon was established in 2018 to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence and achievement and made outstanding contributions to the social, cultural or economic well-being of Yukon and its residents.

The Commissioner of Yukon Angélique Bernard’s personal Coat of Arms was also unveiled. The design takes in many aspects of Bernard’s life including parchment paper that represents her profession as a translator, and a raven as a symbol of gratitude as well as the official bird of Yukon. Bears are also included which represent Commissioner Bernard’s surname which is derived from Germanic words meaning "strong bear". Both clans are represented with the wolf and crow appearing in respect of Yukon First Nations. There are also parts of the design that represent the Commissioner’s family life. The soccer ball represents her children and the crocus represents the families of her husband.

The new second floor exhibit at the Taylor House gives a glimpse into the life and times of previous Commissioner James Smith. Smith was Commissioner from October 15, 1966, to June 30, 1976, and was instrumental in the creation of Kluane National Park and Reserve and the designation of the Chilkoot Trail as a national historic site.