Most Reverend Edgar P. Wadhams
First Bishop of Ogdensburg
(1872-1891)
The coat of arms of Most Reverend Edgar Prindle Wadhams, the first bishop of Ogdensburg, was modeled on the English coat of arms of the Wadhams family - a red shield with three silver roses, two above and one below the chevron.
The shield is surmounted by the pontifical hat or gallero, with six tassels in three rows, on either side of the shield, all in green, the heraldic insignia of a prelate of the rank of bishop. A processional cross and a bishop’s miter and crosier complete the external ornaments.
The first bishop’s motto, ITER PARA TUTUM, “PREPARE A SAFE JOURNEY,” from Ave Maris Stella, recalls Bishop Wadhams’ devotion to Mary, the Mother of God.