Flag of the US Virgin Islands

The flag of the U.S. Virgin Islands is a distinct and meaningful emblem that serves as a powerful symbol of the territory's unique identity. As an unincorporated territory of the United States, its flag proudly reflects its political affiliation while also showcasing a design that is a testament to its history and natural beauty. Unlike many other flags of U.S. territories, which often feature a seal on a blue background, the U.S. Virgin Islands flag has a clean and modern design that immediately sets it apart and makes it instantly recognizable.

Design and Symbolism: A Statement of Affiliation and Peace

The flag’s design is simple yet rich in symbolism, with each element carefully chosen to convey a specific meaning.

• The White Field: The main field of the flag is a crisp white. This color is traditionally associated with purity, peace, and the honest character of the people. The simplicity of the white background allows the central emblem to stand out, symbolizing a clear and unblemished identity.

• The Central Emblem: The Bald Eagle: At the center of the flag is a stylized bald eagle, the national emblem of the United States. The eagle is depicted in a standing position, with a shield on its chest that represents the national coat of arms. The presence of the bald eagle is a direct and unequivocal representation of the territory's status as a part of the United States and the protection and governance it receives from the federal government.

• The Letters "V" and "I": On either side of the eagle's head, the letters "V" and "I" are placed in a simple, bold font. These letters are the clear and concise abbreviation for "Virgin Islands," providing an unmistakable identification for the territory. The use of these letters integrates the territory's name directly into the national symbol, creating a unique synthesis of identity.

• The Olive Branch and Arrows: The eagle holds a green olive branch in one talon and three blue arrows in the other. This symbolism is a direct borrowing from the Great Seal of the United States. The olive branch represents peace and the desire for harmonious relations, while the three arrows symbolize the three main islands of the territory—Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas—and the strength and readiness to defend them.

History and Creation: The Dawn of a New Era

The flag’s creation is a direct result of a significant historical event: the purchase of the islands from Denmark by the United States in 1917. After the transfer, the islands were governed under the American flag, but there was a growing desire for a distinct local symbol. The flag was officially adopted on May 17, 1921, after it was designed by two individuals: Admiral Sumner E. W. Kitelle, who was the islands’ first American governor, and his wife, Percival Wilson Sparks, a talented artist. The governor requested her to create a simple, elegant design that would be easy for local residents to replicate. This collaborative effort between the first American governor and an artist resulted in the lasting symbol that the islands use today.

Status and Adoption: A Celebrated Territorial Flag

The flag of the U.S. Virgin Islands is the official flag of the territory. It is flown with pride on government buildings, schools, and homes throughout Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas. It is used in conjunction with the flag of the United States, signifying the territory’s status as a proud part of the American nation. The flag’s adoption was a unifying moment for the new American territory, providing a visual symbol for a shared future under a new administration.

Size and Proportions

The flag of the U.S. Virgin Islands typically uses a proportion of 2:3, making it slightly wider than it is tall. This ratio is common for many flags worldwide, offering a balanced and pleasing visual shape. The central bald eagle emblem is carefully sized and positioned to be the focal point of the flag, ensuring that its powerful symbolism is always prominent.

Interesting Facts and Significance

The flag holds several fascinating details that contribute to its rich history.

• A Family Effort: The design of the flag was a personal project for the territory's first American governor and his wife, making its creation a unique and intimate part of the islands’ history.

• Symbol of the Three Islands: The three arrows held by the eagle are not just a symbol of strength; they are a subtle but powerful representation of the three major islands that form the territory, underscoring the flag's local relevance.

• Simplicity and Clarity: The flag’s design is noteworthy for its simplicity. Unlike the often complex and detailed seals found on other territorial flags, the emblem is a clear, stylized image that is easily identifiable and memorable. This design choice speaks to the direct and forthright character of the islands.

Significance for Residents

For the residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the flag is a deeply meaningful symbol of their identity. It represents their status as American citizens and their constitutional connection to the United States. At the same time, the inclusion of the "V" and "I" and the unique design make it a source of local pride, distinguishing them from the mainland and other territories. The flag is a unifying emblem that celebrates their history, their peaceful way of life, and their collective identity as proud islanders in the Caribbean. It is a treasured part of their cultural fabric, representing their past and their promising future.

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