In earlier times, Colours played a prominent part in many battles. They served to identify units in battle, often marking the focal point of a struggle. Captured Colours were a prized trophy and attracted enemy attention and inspired much gallantry. By the late 19th and 20th Century, however, they were no longer carried in battle, but their status as the heart and soul of a regiment continued, and the laying up of Colours signifies and helps keep holy the memories of the men who sacrificed their lives.
The Governor General's Foot Guards were presented their first Colours in 1874. Twenty-two battle honours - the names of some of the battle in which the regiment fought - were emblazoned along the edges of each flag. Their fifth Colours were presented to the Governor General's Foot Guards on 13 September 1959 by Governor General Vincent Massey and were laid up at the Church of St. Bartholomew on 5 November 1972. St. Bartholomew was formally recognized as The Guards' Chapel on this date. The three earlier Colours were laid up at Christ Church Cathedral and the fourth at the Canadian War Museum.
For many years the Colours hung by the altar until they were removed in 2014. A team under the direction of Anthony Kellett worked with the Governor General's Foot Guards and had the Colours removed, cleaned, conserved and framed. They are now located at the back of the church.
