Texas State Flag

Meaning of the Flag

The state of Texas has a flag that carries deep symbolism behind its colors and designs. The colors selected for the flag were designed to represent the traits of loyalty, bravery and purity.

One of the most prominent features of the flag of Texas is the star, which has led to the state’s nickname of “the Lone Star State.” The Texas Flag Code states that the star is symbolic of the state of Texas and the unity as one for God, State and Country. The single stripes on the flag are a nod to the Republic of Fredonia, which seceded from Mexico in the 19th century. The Fredonian flag used a white and red stripe to represent the Anglo settlers and the Native American tribes that had formed an alliance. This rebellion later inspired the Texas Revolution.

Colors of the Flag

There are three colors used in the flag of Texas. The color blue is located on the hoist side, used as a vertical band that makes up 1/3 of the flag. This color symbolizes loyalty. Within the blue band is a white five-pointed star—the lone star. There is a white horizontal stripe on the opposite side, with the color white representing purity. Below this is a red stripe which represents bravery.

History of the Flag

The “Lone Star Flag” of Texas was first introduced in 1838 and was adopted the following year for the Republic of Texas. The flag remained in place until Texas became the 28th US state in 1845. At that time, the state flag was the national flag. During the period of 1879 to 1933, the Long Star Flag was the de facto state flag but was not official. It wasn’t until 1933 with the passed of the 1933 flag law that the original Lone Star Flag was reinstated as the state flag.

Flag Facts

The designer of the Texas state flag is unknown, although it is believed that Dr. Charles B. Stewart designed the flag. Others, however, say that Stewart’s design mimicked other designs.

The state flag is required to be displayed at state institutions during all state and national holidays.

Prior to its independence, other flags including the flag of the Mexican Republic and the Spanish state flag were flown over Texas.