Flag of Kentucky (US state)

The flag of the state of Kentucky, officially adopted on March 26, 1918, is a banner rich with history and meaning. Its central design, the state seal, tells a story of friendship and unity that has been a defining theme of Kentucky's identity since its inception. While the design may seem simple at first glance, its symbolism is a direct link to the state's unique status as a "Commonwealth" and its pivotal role as a border state in American history.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Elements

The Kentucky state flag features a central emblem on a solid field, which makes its message clear and powerful.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag's field is a deep navy blue. This color is often associated with patriotism and American flags, providing a strong backdrop for the state's unique emblem.

• The State Seal: The central element is the state's official seal, surrounded by a wreath of goldenrod, the state flower. The seal depicts two men, a frontiersman and a statesman, shaking hands.

  • The Figures: The man on the left is a frontiersman, dressed in buckskin, representing the rugged, pioneering spirit of Kentucky's early settlers. The man on the right is a statesman, in a suit, symbolizing the more formal, legislative side of the state. Their handshake represents the friendship and unity between these two groups, highlighting the state's transition from a wild frontier to an organized commonwealth.

  • The Motto: Above the figures is the state motto, inscribed in a circle: "UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL." This powerful phrase, dating back to Kentucky's founding, encapsulates the flag’s core message of unity and solidarity.

  • Commonwealth of Kentucky: The words "Commonwealth of Kentucky" are inscribed around the outside of the seal, proudly declaring the state's unique political designation.

• Dimensions: While not explicitly defined by law, the flag is typically produced in a standard ratio of 3:5.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The history of the Kentucky flag is closely tied to the history of its state seal, a symbol much older than the flag itself.

• The Seal's Origin (1792): The design of the seal, including the two figures and the motto, dates back to 1792 when Kentucky became the 15th state. It was created to represent the cooperative spirit necessary to build the new state.

• The Flag's Adoption (1918): The flag itself was designed by an art teacher from Frankfort, Jesse D. Goins. His design, which placed the seal on a navy blue field and added a wreath of goldenrod, was officially adopted by the Kentucky General Assembly on March 26, 1918.

• The Motto's Historical Significance: The motto "UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL" held particular significance during the American Civil War. As a border state, Kentucky was deeply divided, with citizens fighting on both sides. The motto served as a crucial reminder of the importance of unity, a theme that has resonated throughout the state's history.

Historical Context and the State of Kentucky

Kentucky’s flag is a unique visual representation of its history. Its status as a "Commonwealth," a term that emphasizes the idea of a government dedicated to the public good, is proudly displayed. The imagery of the frontiersman and the statesman is a powerful nod to the state’s dual identity: a place of rugged individualism and wild natural beauty, yet also a state of law and order with a rich political tradition. This blend of attributes perfectly captures the spirit of Kentucky, a state that has long balanced tradition with progress.

Significance for Residents

For the residents of Kentucky, the flag is a potent symbol of their shared heritage and values. The handshake on the seal represents the friendship and cooperation that are central to Kentucky's community spirit. The motto serves as a constant reminder of the importance of unity in a state with a diverse population and a history of divisions. The flag connects residents to their past, celebrating the pioneers who first settled the land and the leaders who built a lasting commonwealth. It is a source of pride, representing the state’s resilience, its beautiful landscape, and the strong character of its people.

Interesting Facts

• The state's nickname is "The Bluegrass State," even though its flag features a navy blue field.

• The frontiersman on the seal is often believed to be the legendary explorer and pioneer Daniel Boone, a key figure in Kentucky's early history.

• The state motto, "UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL," is attributed to an old American patriotic song and a variation of a line from one of Aesop's fables, emphasizing its deep historical roots.

• The wreath of goldenrod (Solidago) was added to the flag's design after it was designated as the official state flower in 1926, which added a more regional and natural element.

• Kentucky is one of four U.S. states to be designated a "Commonwealth," along with Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. This status is a point of pride and is reflected on the flag itself.

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