Flag of Michigan State
The Michigan state flag features the state’s coat of arms on a solid dark blue field. Depicted on the light blue shield is a lake with the sun rising over the blue waters and the peninsula. A man whose hands are raised in a welcoming gesture and holding a rifle in his left hand is depicted standing on the peninsula. Set on each side of the shield is an elk and a moose. Above the shield is a bald eagle grasping an olive branch and arrows with its talons.
Three Latin mottos are featured on the coat of arms. Inscribed on a red ribbon is the motto, “E Pluribus Unum” (translated as “From many, one”). Inscribed on the light blue shield is the motto, “Tuebor” (or “I will defend”). Meanwhile, the motto, “Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice” (or “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you”) is inscribed on a white ribbon.
Symbolism
The symbols depicted on the state’s coat or arms are especially chosen to represent the state’s ideals and its natural beauty. These symbols are interpreted as follows:
- Man with rifle and raised hand: signifies peace and his capability to defend his rights
- Elk and moose: illustrate the great animals of Michigan
- Bald eagle symbolizes the United States
The mottos mentioned above are likewise reflected in the shield.
- “E Pluribus Unum”, a national motto of the United States, is depicted by the bald eagle
- “Tuebor” is symbolized by the arrows grasped by the eagle and the rifle held by the man in his left hand
- “Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice” is depicted by the warmth of the rising sun, the man’s friendly greeting and the olive branch held by the bald eagle
The current flag of the state of Michigan is the third official state flag. It was adopted in 1911 through Public Act 209.
The first state flag displayed a portrait of Stevens Thomson Mason, Michigan’s first governor. The portrait was displayed on one side of the flag while the state’s coat or arms was situated on the other side.
The second state flag was adopted in 1865. This version had the Michigan coat of arms displayed on one side while the coat of arms of the United States of America was displayed on the other side.
