I. The Crest and Its Meaning

  • The owl represents discernment, foresight, and quiet strength. It is a reminder to observe before acting, to listen deeply before speaking, and to lead with knowledge over impulse. The owl’s nocturnal sight symbolizes the Ward family’s ability to see clearly through darkness — to perceive truth even when it is obscured.

  • The scales symbolize equity, fairness, and measured judgment. They reflect a family belief that every decision — from the smallest to the most profound — must balance truth and compassion, individual freedom and collective responsibility, effort and reward.
    They are a daily reminder that doing what is fair is not always easy, but it is always right.

  • Translated as “Whatever is Fair,” this simple phrase encapsulates the moral compass of the Ward family. It is not just a saying, but a standard — that in all dealings, whether in home, work, or community, fairness is the guiding principle.

The Ward Family Charter

Equity

“Whatevers Fair”

We believe in fairness as the foundation of all relationships — personal, professional, and civic.
To live by equity means to:

To live by equity means to:

  1. Treat others with dignity, regardless of difference or circumstance.

  2. Balance self-interest with the needs of the whole.

  3. Pursue justice when wrongs occur, not vengeance.

Wisdom

“See Clearly, Act Justly”

We believe that wisdom is gained through observation, study, humility, and time.
The wise person is not the loudest but the most reflective — understanding that action without thought leads to imbalance.

To live with wisdom is to:

  1. Seek truth before opinion.

  2. Make decisions rooted in principle, not popularity.

  3. Learn continually — from history, experience, and others.

Stewardship

“Leave Things Better Than You Found Them”

We are caretakers of more than ourselves — of family, property, community, and creation.
Stewardship is the bridge between legacy and future.
It asks each generation to improve upon what was given, with gratitude and accountability.

To live as stewards is to:

  1. Honor the past by building a better future.

  2. Conserve resources — time, money, and environment — for the next generation.

  3. Act with care toward our home, House Heywood, and the community beyond its walls.

The Legacy Statement

“We, the Ward Family, affirm that our name stands for fairness, wisdom, and stewardship.

That we are heirs not only to property, but to purpose.
That we will use what we have — our minds, means, and home — to do what is fair.


And that our children will inherit not only the fruits of our labor, but the light of our example.”

Family Council

A semi-annual family meeting (at House Heywood or virtually) shall:

  • Review family goals, major decisions, and philanthropic initiatives.

  • Encourage open dialogue across generations.

  • Reaffirm the Charter through discussion or renewal.

Calendar Block
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Philanthropy and Service

The family commits to annual acts of service or giving, guided by the principle of fairness.
These may include:

  • Local community service (e.g., coat drives, educational sponsorships).

  • Mentorship programs for youth in Orange, NJ.

  • Sustainability projects connected to House Heywood or the City of Orange.

Generational Continuity

Each generation may:

  • Add to the Charter (but not remove its core values).

  • Record their own reflections or interpretations of the three pillars.

  • Nominate one Steward of the House — a symbolic role responsible for safeguarding the physical and digital heritage of the Ward Family (including House Heywood archives, crest, and digital vault).

Renewal and Reflection

This Charter may be renewed or expanded every five years at the Ward Family Gathering, where new generations may:

  • Add to the family values in their own words.

  • Present new initiatives inspired by these principles.