Hungarian Historical Silhouette

Hungarian immigrants coming to Canada were mostly from poor rural areas looking for a better life and work opportunities. Their faith was extremely important. Family was very important too, extending to a wide circle of relatives, aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws, sometimes to a remote degree. Saltcoats and district family names include the Toth, Salamon, Tackatch, Unyi, Bodnor and others. Church services were held in Grahame school whenever the traveling priest came through.

A little church, Halmok, the one in the silhouette was built near Willowbrook where some of the early Hungarian community settled.

In 1963 Saltcoats Hungarian United Church joined the Saltcoats United Church.

Elements of the silhouette:

The church represents the support and help of family and faith provided to strengthen the community.

The Turul, a strong eagle-like mythological bird is a national symbol of Hungarians. The origin of this legendary bird goes back to prehistoric Hungary. It is the relic of the ancient Hungarian faith, the embodiment of the superior powers as well as the monarchical sovereignty. It is also the ancient symbol of national identity and togetherness. Furthermore, it symbolises the Holy Spirit that guarded Hungarians in ancient times.

On this silhouette, the body of the Turul is the Hungarian coat of arms which has been used, both with and without the Holy Crown of Hungary, with its elements dating back to the Middle Ages.

The shield is split into two parts:

The left side (dexter) features the so-called Árpád stripes, a particular heraldic and vexillologic configuration in constant use since the early 13th century. Traditionally, the silver stripes represent four rivers: Duna (Danube), Tisza, Dráva, and Száva.

The right side (sinister) consists of a double cross, situated inside a small crown. The crown is placed on the middle heap of three hills, representing the mountain ranges Tátra, Mátra, and Fátra.

Köszönöm –Hungarian phrase meaning Thank you

Tulips, depicted in the traditional embroidery motif, are the national flower of Hungary.