Delaware

Delaware 3x5' nylon flag, canvas heading tape with brass grommets.

The flag of Delaware is a distinctive and historically significant symbol, rich in elements that reflect the state’s heritage, values, and contributions to the nation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the elements on the flag:

Background

• Colonial Blue Field: The flag features a Colonial blue field, which gives it a distinctive and traditional appearance. The color evokes the colonial history of Delaware and its status as the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

Diamond Shape

• Buff Diamond: At the center of the flag is a buff-colored diamond. This diamond shape is unique among U.S. state flags and represents the significance and value of Delaware as the first state. The color buff is a nod to the uniforms worn by Continental Army troops during the American Revolution.

State Coat of Arms

At the center of the buff diamond is the state coat of arms, which is filled with symbolic imagery:

Shield

• Wheat Sheaf: At the top of the shield, a sheaf of wheat represents Delaware’s agricultural bounty and the importance of farming to the state’s economy.
• Ear of Corn: Below the wheat sheaf, an ear of corn signifies the agricultural richness and productivity of Delaware.
• Ox: The lower part of the shield features a red ox, symbolizing the state’s strong agricultural traditions and its history of animal husbandry.

Supporting Elements

• Ship: Above the shield, there is a sailing ship, which represents Delaware’s maritime commerce and the significance of its ports and waterways.
• Farmers: Flanking the shield are two figures: a farmer on the left holding a hoe and a militiaman on the right holding a musket. The farmer symbolizes the importance of agriculture, while the militiaman represents the role of citizens in defending freedom and maintaining the state’s readiness to protect its rights.
• Water: The shield itself is divided by a blue stripe with white waves, symbolizing the Delaware River and the state’s coastal and riverine geography.

Banner

• State Motto and Date: Below the shield, a banner displays the state motto, "Liberty and Independence," reflecting the state’s values and its role in the fight for American independence. Additionally, the date "December 7, 1787," is prominently displayed below the diamond, marking the day Delaware became the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution.

Symbolism

• Agriculture and Industry: The wheat sheaf, ear of corn, and ox highlight Delaware’s agricultural heritage and the importance of farming to the state’s identity.
• Maritime Commerce: The ship symbolizes the significance of maritime trade and Delaware’s strategic location along important waterways.
• Citizen-Soldiers: The farmer and militiaman emphasize the importance of both agriculture and the role of ordinary citizens in defending liberty.
• Geography: The blue stripe with waves on the shield underscores Delaware’s connection to the Delaware River and its coastal geography.
• Historical Significance: The date and state motto underscore Delaware’s pride in being the first state to join the Union and its commitment to the ideals of liberty and independence.

Historical Context

The current design of Delaware’s flag was adopted on July 24, 1913. The elements of the state coat of arms date back to 1777, reflecting the state’s rich historical legacy and its early role in the founding of the United States.

In summary, the flag of Delaware is a unique and meaningful symbol that encapsulates the state’s agricultural and maritime heritage, its historical significance as the first state, and its enduring values of liberty and independence. Each element on the flag contributes to a deeper understanding of Delaware’s identity and its contributions to the nation.