Have you seen the flag of Illinois? It features the state’s seal against a white background. Below the seal is the word “Illinois.” While the design is simple, the Illinois flag is a popular throughout the Prarie State. It embodies Illinois through its history and symbolism. Here are five facts about the Illinois flag.
#1) Current Design Adopted in 1969
The current design for the Illinois flag was officially adopted on Sept. 17, 1969. Prior to this period, the Illinois flag only featured the state’s seal against a white background. The new design adopted in 1969 retained the state’s seal but added the word “Illinois” below it. Since then, the Illinois flag has remained unchanged. It still features the sate design consisting of a seal, a white background and the word “Illinois” that was adopted in 1969.
#2) The Designer Won $25
The Illinois flag was designed by Lucy Derwent, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). In 1913, Derwent participated in a contest to create an official flag for the state of Illinois. There were 35 proposed designs submitted as part of the contest. Derwent was declared the winner, and she earned $25 for her design.
#3) Features Year of Statehood and Year of Seal Redesign
When viewing the Illinois flag, you may notice that it features the years 1818 and 1868. What do these years represent exactly? 1818 is the year in which Illinois became a state, whereas 1868 was the year in which the Great Seal of Illinois was redesigned. The Illinois flag, of course, features the state’s seal. Therefore, it includes the year 1868 to symbolize when the state’s seal was redesigned, and it includes the year 1818 to symbolize Illinois’ statehood.
#4) Features a Bald Eagle
At the forefront of the Illinois flag is a bald eagle. The state’s seal depicts a bald eagle standing on a shield. This image symbolizes the United States. Directly below the bald eagle and shield is the motto: “State Sovereignty, National Union.” The Illinois flag is one of eight state flags to depict a bald eagle. Other flags that feature a bald eagle include Iowa, Michigan, New York, North Dakota, Utah and Pennsylvania.
#5) The Colors Are Symbolic
The Illinois flag has symbolic colors. The white field represents purity, whereas the flag’s blue letters and eagle represent loyalty and vigilance. It’s a simple design with rich history and symbolism.
