Vermont State Flag

Meaning of the Flag

The state coat of arms is the main feature of the state flag of Vermont. There are many elements of this emblem that is important to the history of the state. The pine tree in the center represents the abundant forests in Vermont. A cow and sheaves are wheat are symbols of the dairy and agriculture industries, which have been important to the state throughout history. The pine needles supporting the coat of arms represent the pine branches worn during the War of 1812. The Green Mountains are also depicted in the background of the image. The state’s motto, “Freedom and Unity,” is included in the design.

Colors of the Flag

The background of Vermont’s flag is azure blue. The coat of arms features many colors, including shades of green, blue, white, brown and gold. The banner with the state’s motto located at the bottom of the emblem is red with white lettering.

History of the Flag

Before 1804, the state of Vermont did not have an official state flag. There were, however, unofficial flags in use dating back to the 1700s, in particular the Flag of the Green Mountain Boys which featured a green field with a blue canton and white stars. This flag was used as the state flag from 1791 to 1804.

The second flag was used from 1804 to 1837. This flag was based on the national flag but featured 17 stars and 17 strips with the text “Vermont” located in the upper red stripe. This was based on what was expected to be the new U.S. flag. However, this change was not implemented, and the state flag had more stripes than the national flag. This flag was still used through 1837. The design was changed again in 1837. This version featured 13 red and white stripes and a blue canton, similar to the national flag. However, instead of stars, this flag had the state’s coat of arms. This flag was used through 1923.

There was confusion over the flag, however, due to its similarities to the U.S. flag. A new design was created and a new national flag adopted on June 1, 1923. This is the design that is still used today.

Flag Facts

There have been multiple proposals throughout the years to bring back the Green Mountain Boys’ flag that was used in the 1700s and early 1800s. However, none of these proposals have come to fruition.

flag
Colors
Blue, Green, Red, Gold
Adopted
4/17/1923

Design

Blue background with the state coat of arms in the center

Vermont State Flag

Vermont Flag

Vermont Flag SVG

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