Flag of Washington (US state)

The flag of the state of Washington stands out among all U.S. state flags for its distinct color and central image. It is the only state flag with a green field and the only one to feature a portrait of an actual person. Officially adopted on March 5, 1923, the flag is a powerful and direct tribute to both the state’s namesake, George Washington, and its beautiful natural environment, earning it the nickname "The Evergreen State."

Flag Design, Symbolism, and Colors

The design of the Washington state flag is both simple and deeply symbolic, making it immediately recognizable.

• Colors and Arrangement: The flag's field is a striking dark green. This color is a direct nod to the state’s nickname, "The Evergreen State," reflecting its dense, lush forests. In the center of the green field is the state's official seal, a circular emblem with a blue background.

• The Seal's Central Image: The heart of the flag's symbolism is the central image on the seal: a portrait of George Washington, the first U.S. president. His inclusion is a powerful and direct homage to the man for whom the state was named. The seal is encircled by a gold ring with the text "The Seal of the State of Washington" and the year "1889", the year the state was admitted to the Union.

• Unique Design Requirements: A unique and expensive detail of the flag is the requirement that the seal be sewn or embroidered onto the green field, not simply printed. This makes the flag a work of craftsmanship and a symbol of pride in its quality.

A Brief History of the Flag's Creation and Adoption

The history of the Washington flag is a story of a relatively late adoption, reflecting the state's focus on other matters in its early years.

• Early Statehood (1889-1923): Following its admission to the Union in 1889, the state of Washington did not have an official flag for over three decades. During this period, various unofficial flags were used, often featuring the state seal in different designs and colors. The lack of a standardized flag caused confusion and a desire among residents to have a formal symbol of their state identity.

• The 1923 Adoption: Recognizing the need for a unified emblem, the Washington State Legislature passed a bill on March 5, 1923, officially adopting the current design. The law specifically designated the flag's dimensions, the color of the green field, and the exact placement and appearance of the state seal. This act ended decades of confusion and gave the state a proud, official banner.

Historical Context and the State of Washington

The Washington state flag is a reflection of the state's identity as a place of natural beauty and historical importance. The green color represents the state’s dominant geography: its vast forests, mountains, and lush landscapes. By placing a portrait of George Washington in the center, the flag directly links the state to the foundational history of the United States, acknowledging its role as a proud member of the Union. The flag's design is a testament to the state's appreciation for its natural environment and its historical roots.

Significance for Residents

For residents of Washington, the flag is a source of pride in their state’s unique character. It represents a deep connection to the natural world, symbolized by the evergreen color. The portrait of George Washington on the seal is a constant reminder of the state’s historical significance and its place within the American story. The flag is a symbol of their home—a state of unparalleled natural beauty, innovative industry, and a rich history.

Interesting Facts

• The Washington state flag is the only U.S. state flag with a green background.

• It is also the only U.S. state flag that features the portrait of an actual person.

• State law mandates that the seal must be embroidered or sewn onto the flag, making it one of the most expensive flags to produce.

• The state seal itself was created in 1889 by a jeweler named Charles Talcott, who based the design on a picture of George Washington.

• The original seal was drawn in ink on a piece of tracing paper and was made into a brass die. Talcott was paid for his work but did not receive any royalties for the design.

• While the flag was adopted in 1923, it did not gain widespread popularity until the late 1930s and 1940s.

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