Flag of New Hampshire (US state)

The flag of the state of New Hampshire is a powerful and traditional banner that serves as a direct link to the state's pivotal role in the American Revolution and its rich maritime history. Dominated by the state's official seal on a dark blue field, the flag tells a story of naval contribution, historical pride, and its unique place as the ninth state to join the Union. It is a symbol cherished by the "Granite State" residents for its connection to their independent spirit.

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Dimensions

The New Hampshire state flag is a classic example of a design centered on a state seal.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag consists of a dark blue field, a color that is widely used in U.S. state flags to symbolize unity with the nation. In the center, the state's seal is prominently displayed in a gold-yellow color.

• The State Seal: The seal is a detailed and historically significant emblem:

  • The Frigate Raleigh: The central element of the seal is the frigate USS Raleigh. This ship is not just any vessel; it was one of the first 13 warships commissioned by the Continental Congress and was built in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in 1776. The ship is shown in a dry dock, with the ocean in the background, a clear tribute to the state's shipbuilding prowess and its naval contributions to the Revolution.

  • Laurel Wreath: The frigate is enclosed within a laurel wreath, a traditional symbol of honor, victory, and fame.

  • Nine Stars: The laurel wreath is intertwined with nine stars. This detail is profoundly significant, as it represents New Hampshire’s status as the ninth state to ratify the U.S. Constitution on June 21, 1788, officially putting the Constitution into effect.

  • Inscriptions: The seal is encircled by the words "SEAL OF THE STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE 1776," commemorating the year of American independence.

• Dimensions: The official flag has a ratio of 2:3.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The history of the New Hampshire flag is tied directly to the history of its state seal.

• Seal Adoption (1784): The state seal was originally designed and adopted by the legislature in 1784. However, for many years, the drawing of the frigate on the seal was inaccurate.

• Flag Adoption (1909): The flag itself, featuring the seal on a blue background, was officially adopted on February 24, 1909.

• Seal Redesign (1931): The seal was officially revised in 1931 to more accurately depict the USS Raleigh. This redesign was an important step to ensure historical accuracy in the state's most prominent symbol. The artist who created the corrected design was Mrs. Evelyn S. Longman.

Historical Context and the State of New Hampshire

The flag of New Hampshire is a testament to the state's identity as a founding pillar of the United States. Its symbolism encapsulates both its economic and historical strengths. The frigate represents not only the shipbuilding industry but also the adventurous, independent spirit of its people. The nine stars are a constant reminder of the state’s critical role in the establishment of the American government. While the state's famous motto, "Live Free or Die," is not on the flag, the flag’s overall message of independence and historical significance perfectly complements this core tenet of the New Hampshire identity.

Significance for Residents

For the people of New Hampshire, the flag is a source of immense pride. It represents their state’s rich history and its critical contributions to the founding of the nation. The emblem of the USS Raleigh speaks to a legacy of craftsmanship, courage, and a deep connection to the sea. The stars are a constant reminder of the state’s constitutional legacy, a point of pride for a state known for its independent-minded citizens. The flag is a unifying symbol that honors New Hampshire's past and reflects the values of its people today.

Interesting Facts

• The frigate USS Raleigh was named in honor of Sir Walter Raleigh and was one of the first ships to fly the American flag in a foreign port.

• The state’s famous motto, "Live Free or Die," is not on the official flag. It is found on the state’s license plates and is a powerful, separate symbol of the state's fierce independence.

• New Hampshire is known as the "Granite State" for its extensive granite formations, but this nickname is not depicted on the flag.

• The original seal was much simpler and lacked the laurel wreath and stars, which were added later to represent the state's accomplishments and place in the Union.

• The flag's simple design, featuring the seal on a blue background, is a common format among U.S. state flags but is distinguished by the powerful and specific historical details contained within the seal.

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