Flag of Kansas (US state)

The flag of the state of Kansas, officially adopted in 1927, is a rich tapestry of the state’s history and values. It serves as a visual chronicle, telling the story of Kansas from its early days as a hunting ground to its role in the westward expansion and its emergence as an agricultural powerhouse. While the flag's design is based on a classic seal, its powerful imagery and unique additions make it a distinct symbol of Kansan identity.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Colors

The Kansas flag is a navy blue banner with the state's official seal at its center, topped by the state's name.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag's field is a solid navy blue, a color traditionally associated with patriotism and military banners. At the center is the intricate state seal, which is surrounded by a wreath. Below the seal, the name "KANSAS" is written in large gold letters.

• The State Seal: The seal is the centerpiece of the flag, packed with symbolism:

  • The Motto: A banner at the top of the seal displays the state's motto: "Ad Astra per Aspera," a Latin phrase meaning "To the stars through difficulties." This motto represents the perseverance of the state’s pioneers and its citizens' enduring spirit.

  • The Landscape: The seal depicts a peaceful landscape with a rising sun, symbolizing the east. A farmer plows a field, representing the state’s agricultural identity. In the background, a covered wagon heads west, a clear nod to the Santa Fe and Oregon trails that passed through Kansas.

  • Historical Figures: The seal features a Native American hunting a buffalo, a reference to the land's original inhabitants and a bygone era. A steamboat on a river symbolizes early commerce and trade.

  • Statehood: A circle of 34 stars surrounds the scenes, indicating that Kansas was the 34th state to be admitted to the Union. The date of statehood, January 29, 1861, is also prominently displayed.

• The Name "KANSAS": Added to the flag in 1961, the large gold name below the seal was a practical measure to make the flag more easily identifiable from a distance, as many states have seals on a blue field.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The flag of Kansas has a history that reflects both its longevity and its need for modernization.

• The Seal's Origin (1861): The state seal itself was created and adopted in 1861, the same year Kansas became a state. The design was the work of the first Secretary of State, J.W. Robinson, and the motto was proposed by Senator John James Ingalls.

• The Flag's Initial Adoption (1927): The original flag was designed by a committee and officially adopted by the Kansas legislature in 1927. This early version had the seal on a blue field but did not include the state name.

• The 1961 Amendment: The addition of the name "KANSAS" in gold letters was a significant change made in 1961. This amendment was championed by legislators who noted that the flag was often mistaken for others, and a clear identifier was needed. This change cemented the flag's modern, recognizable identity.

Historical Context and the State of Kansas

The Kansas flag is a powerful visual narrative of the state’s journey. Its imagery tells the story of how the state transformed from a territory marked by buffalo hunting and native tribes into a major hub for agriculture and westward migration. The motto, "Ad Astra per Aspera," is a direct reflection of the state's turbulent history, including the "Bleeding Kansas" era and the challenges of settling the frontier. The flag serves as a reminder of the perseverance and resilience required to build a lasting and prosperous state in the heart of America.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Kansas, the flag is a beloved symbol of their heritage and values. The flag’s design tells a comprehensive story of their land, their history, and their indomitable spirit. It represents a deep connection to the pioneers who came before them and the farmers who work the land today. The motto, in particular, resonates with the community, symbolizing their ability to overcome challenges and achieve great things. The flag is a source of pride, celebrating the state’s unique past and its enduring role in the nation's progress.

Interesting Facts

• The flag's motto, "Ad Astra per Aspera," is one of the most well-known Latin mottos in the United States and has been the state's official motto since its statehood in 1861.

• The number of stars on the seal, 34, represents Kansas's order of admission into the Union.

• The flag is one of many "seal-on-a-bedsheet" designs, but the addition of the word "KANSAS" in 1961 was a landmark decision that significantly improved its uniqueness and recognizability.

• The original flag was first flown at Fort Riley in 1927 during a military parade.

• Although not on the flag, the sunflower is the official state flower and a widely recognized symbol of Kansas, often seen in official emblems and marketing. The sunflower is a symbol of the state's prairie landscape and its agricultural abundance.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.