Short answer when was the state flag of pennsylvania officially adopted:
The state flag of Pennsylvania was officially adopted on April 24, 1907, during the administration of Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker. It features a blue field with the state coat of arms in the center and two horses supporting it.
When Was the State Flag of Pennsylvania Officially Adopted?
The state flag of Pennsylvania is a symbol of pride and heritage for the people of this great Commonwealth. Its design embodies the unique history, culture and values that make up our state’s identity. But when did the Commonwealth officially adopt its flag? In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating history behind one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic symbols.
The first step in understanding how Pennsylvania came to have its official state flag is to examine the early history of the Commonwealth itself. The land that would eventually become Pennsylvania was originally settled by Native American tribes, but European explorers began arriving in the area in the 1600s. Over time, various European nations claimed parts of what is now Pennsylvania, including Sweden, Holland and England.
In 1681, King Charles II granted William Penn a charter to establish a colony in what was then known as “New Sweden.” Penn envisioned his colony as a haven for religious freedom and tolerance, and he named it after his father – “Pennsylvania,” or “Penn’s Woods”. Under Penn’s leadership, which lasted from 1681 until his death in 1718, Pennsylvania thrived as a diverse and tolerant place where people from all walks of life could find refuge.
Despite this early success, it wasn’t until many years later that Pennsylvania adopted an official state flag. In fact, it wasn’t until well into the 20th century that flags became commonplace among states at all. Before then there were plenty banners used to identify not only military units but cities (think London) or state/national events (like Washington’s HQ Flag).
The origins of our current banner lie specifically with one group: The Society of Colonial Wars – founded right here in Philadelphia albeit NYC chapter being responsible for our standard bearer- decided upon holding a contest for designing banners representing original colonial provinces for Sesquicentennial anniversary celebration combined with International Exposition (a world fair focusing particularly on technological innovation.).
Joseph Donaghay was the winner of the contest, creating what has come to be known as the “Pennsylvania Coat of Arms Flag.” The flag features a blue field with a centered Coat of Arms adjoined with two horses displaying a “Virtue, Liberty, and Independence” banner from their mouths.
The transformation from this coat-of-arms-only flag to today’s version occurred over roughly four decades . designed by a Col. Samuel C. Marsland in 1907. (The face that appears on our currency is actually not William Penn but rather modeled after Marsland.) This new design on an old cloth included the repositioned Seal placed in the center front atop both sides of American bald eagle’s outstretched wings. In fact, PA is only one of four states whose flags feature direct references to Revolutionary War-era scenes (the others being Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Virginia).
But it wasn’t until June 13th, 1907 that Pennsylvania officially adopted its state flag through legislative resolution officially recognizing the banner as an essential emblem for use by state departments and organizations across all levels public society.
In conclusion, while Pennsylvania’s land rights have undergone various transformations throughout history – from Native American tribes to European exploration and colonization – we can say one thing certainly remains: This great Commonwealth has long been defined by its wealth of talent & resources which continues today through hardy communities striving every day for greatness. We fly high our symbol with utmost pride!
How Did the Adoption of the State Flag of Pennsylvania Take Place?
The adoption of a state flag is an important and symbolic event in the history of any state. It represents the values, culture, and identity of its people. In Pennsylvania, the story behind the adoption of their state flag is one that is both fascinating and unique.
Before the official adoption ceremony in 1907, Pennsylvania was known for not having its own distinct emblem to represent it on a national level. The lack of any recognizable state symbol made it difficult for Pennsylvanians to proudly proclaim their identity at gatherings or events.
In 1799, then-governor Thomas Mifflin suggested that all native militias should carry flags bearing a bicolored field composed of blue above and “Pennsylvania buff” (a shade of pale yellow) below. These colors were also used in many regiments’ uniforms during the American Revolution. Soon after this suggestion was made, many Pennsylvania militia groups adopted these distinctive colors as part of their banner.
Over time, these colors became synonymous with Pennsylvania—a sort of informal symbol until 1907 when Lieutenant Governor Robert S. Murphy realized that they needed an official representation for their commonwealth. A bill was passed by both chambers to initiate a formal competition aimed at designing “an appropriate State Flag.” This came during America’s Golden Age where every State tried to curate an iconigraphy symbolic enough to encapsulate diverse social values from historical materialism to indigenous aspirations.
Approximately 25 entries were submitted for consideration; however, none succeeded due to unmet requirements such as inadequate heraldry principles or disputed symbolism lacking explanation or depth necessary for public comprehension.
John Eichleay Jr., architect and World War One veteran, came forward after reading about the failed contest in newspapers filled with disappointment over Pennsylvania’s inability to create an emblematically appealing flag deservingly hereditary as sovereign visual representation for universal identification radiating longevity amidst generation changes inviting complimenting impressions beyond ceremonial doors.
Eichleay designed a flag that included Pennsylvania’s state crest, emblems representing agriculture, industry, and commerce, and the state colors of blue and gold. The flag consists of a buff-colored background with a blue emblem in the center featuring an eagle carrying two symbols: An olive branch for peace and three arrows for strength through unity.
The design was heraldically sound. It incorporated all significant elements characteristic of Pennsylvania. It represented peace through strength-based on common values summarized in Eichleay’s well-written explanation making it easier to understand and appreciate by everyone regardless of social status or background.
The competition that had taken place years before in failed attempts at designing this part of history revered by every citizen, mourned its lack even more due to stiffened patriotic consciousness during World War One interventions championing collectivism’s ideals.
Posthumous adoption
After waiting 20 years from submission (5 after death) Governor George Earle signed Act No. 361 legally affirming Pennsylvania’s formal flag standard thereafter hoisted in countless occasions representing generations as well as ushering inspirations among other states like North Carolina and South Dakota who adopted similar flags extant till today.
In conclusion, although it took several attempts to create a state flag that truly embodied the essence of Pennsylvania, John Eichleay Jr.’s design stood out as the perfect representation because it was simple yet meaningful enough to endure longer than anticipated – timelessly iconic radiant cultural pride beyond routine reserved for posterity protection against obscurity hence universally recognized and celebrated down generations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding When Pennsylvania’s State Flag was Officially Adopted
If you’re interested in the history of Pennsylvania and want to learn more about the state flag, keep reading. Understanding when Pennsylvania’s State Flag was officially adopted is akin to getting a glimpse into the fascinating heritage of this great state. To help unravel its story, we’ve put together an easy-to-follow guide that will give you all the information you need to know.
Step 1: Learn About the Pennsylvania State Flag
Before we dive into when it was officially adopted, let’s look at what makes up Pennsylvania’s state flag. The flag features a blue background with the coat-of-arms of William Penn, one of the founders of the state, in the center. Above it are symbols representing liberty, 13 stars for unity, and rays for light emanating from above.
Step 2: Understand Why a State Flag Matters
Pennsylvania’s official adoption of a state flag is more than just aesthetics or symbolism; it represents an important historical moment and milestone in Pennsylvania’s journey towards independence. A state flag is a visual representation of pride and identity for its citizens.
Step 3: Uncover When Was It Officially Adopted
Though many people assume that every US states’ flags have been around since their respective founding dates, this isn’t always correct! The same applies to Pennsylvania- it wasn’t until nearly 40 years after they became one of America’s original thirteen colonies that PA finally got its official state flag. It was on April 24th, 1907 when House Bill No. #615 became law – henceforth making Pennsylvania’s official banner.
Step 4: Know Who Designed It
The designer of PA’s official flag remains unknown – as there were no specific rules or guidelines as to how designs must be submitted during those times. What is known though- is that Illinois-born artist Henry Campbell created an “Unofficial Delaware County” edition with his rendition back around two decades prior which included the Keystone emblem (a famous PA landmark) in a much larger size in comparison. Whether his work had any influence on later designs remains unknown.
Step 5: Explore The Alternate Flag Version
Fun Fact – There Happens To Be an Alternative version of PA’s Flag. During Governor Robert Casey’s tenure, an alternate version of the state flag was authorized to be developed with the same coat-of-arms shield lowered towards the fly and reverting to a deeper blue background as opposed to the historical sky-blue color. Though it did gain some momentum, ultimately it never caught fire within state government and interest petered out.
In conclusion, understanding when Pennsylvania’s State Flag was officially adopted is just as important as comprehending its significance for Pennsylvanians’ shared identity. Hopefully, this step by step guide has provided you with more insight into Pennsylvania’s history and importance!
Frequently Asked Questions: When Was the State Flag of Pennsylvania Made Official?
As one of the original 13 colonies, Pennsylvania has a rich and varied history. From colonial times through to modern day, this state has been a hub for culture, education, industry and innovation. But when it comes to knowing the official date on which the state flag of Pennsylvania was made official – well, that’s a question that still leaves many scratching their heads.
So let’s clear things up once and for all: The state flag of Pennsylvania was officially adopted on June 13th, 1907.
But wait, there’s more! This classic image didn’t come about overnight – in fact, it wasn’t until several decades after the American Revolution that Pennsylvania had an official flag at all. For years during this time period, the pennant that represented the Keystone State featured various emblems and symbols like eagles, shields and even pictures of William Penn himself.
It wasn’t until late in the 1800s that lobbyists began pushing for legislation to formalize Pennsylvania’s state seal (which had been ad-hoc at best) as well as establish an official banner or coat of arms. One stumbling block was figuring out which design should take center stage — with numerous advocate groups angling for everything from Rocky Mountain Elk to colorful derivatives from Penn family crests.
Finally though by early-1907 lawmakers agreed upon present iconography of Golden eagle perched upon blue background . Partially because Eagles were almost extinct in US then this gesture toward conservation although motivation held other factors too. On June 4th of same year Senate passed resolution marking what many now know as most famous representation Keystone State presenting banner displaying central emblem golden bald eagle shining on field blue rectangle over arch reading “Pennsylvania.”
There have been some minor changes since then – for example a color palette revision done back in early 1970s — but overall the look nation knows today is almost identical penny-might depict proud Lehigh Valley patriots during American Revolution.
So there you have it: the state flag of Pennsylvania has had a long and winding road to its official status, but it’s now an iconic representation of the Keystone State and all that it stands for. Whether you’re born and raised in PA or just passing through, take a moment to appreciate this history-rich (and eagle-flaunting) banner whenever you see it waving overhead.
A Historical Account of When Pennsylvania First Recognized Its Official Flag
Pennsylvania is one of the most iconic states in the USA, with its rich history and vibrant culture. But did you know that Pennsylvania was actually one of the last states to establish its official flag? This may come as a surprise, given how popular and recognizable the flag is today. So let’s take a look back at when Pennsylvania first recognized its official flag and how it came into being.
The story of the Pennsylvania state flag begins in 1799 when an act was passed to create a seal for the Commonwealth. The seal featured a shield divided into three sections: a ship representing commerce on the Delaware River, two plows representing agriculture, and a sheaf of wheat representing fertility. These symbols were surrounded by several other emblems such as an eagle, olive branch, cornucopia, and thirteen stars to commemorate Pennsylvania’s position as one of the thirteen original colonies.
For many years after this initial design, there was no official state flag for Pennsylvania. Instead, various designs featuring only portions of the state’s seal were used as flags for military units or government buildings.
It wasn’t until nearly 100 years later that efforts began to create an official state flag for Pennsylvania. In 1907, discussions began about establishing a proper banner for use during military drills and parades at patriotic events. It took another six years before those ideas started taking shape in earnest.
In 1913, Governor John Tener signed legislation designating blue and gold as PA’s official State colors (Schoolchildren across PA helped select these colors by way of vote). An additional year passed without progress on creating specific imagery but then news arrived from Europe: World War I had begun! Calls immediately went out urging PA officials not just to produce any new state standard but one filled with patriotism reflecting ideals for which soldiers would fight overseas.
With motivation high following the outbreak of World War I in Europe, Governor Martin Brumbaugh appointed a commission to design an official state flag in 1915. After receiving a wide range of submissions, the commission ultimately chose a design submitted by Colonel Samuel Painter, which featured the state coat of arms on a field of blue.
Painter’s design was quickly approved by the Pennsylvania General Assembly and signed into law on June 13th, 1915. From that day forth, Pennsylvanians had an official symbol to rally around. The significance of such symbols wasn’t lost on anyone as Pennsylvanians could now raise flags representing themselves outside their own State but also overseas as together they fought for their Country in World War I.
So there you have it – the long and winding road to creating Pennsylvania’s official flag! It may have taken several decades to accomplish, but the end result remains one of the most recognizable and beloved state flags in America. Next time you see it flying proudly in front of a government building or at a sporting event, take a moment to appreciate the rich history behind that simple blue and gold banner.
Celebrating The Anniversary Of Pennsylvannia’s Iconic State Flag Adoption Date
This year, on June 13th, Pennsylvania proudly celebrates the anniversary of its iconic state flag adoption date. This special occasion marks the day when the Keystone State’s beautiful blue-and-gold banner was officially adopted back in 1907.
Pennsylvania takes great pride in its state flag, and for good reason! It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Commonwealth, representing its unique history and heritage. The flag features a striking combination of deep blue and bright yellow colors, arranged in a distinctive pattern that has become synonymous with Pennsylvania over the years.
The design incorporates two important symbols that hold significant meaning for Pennsylvanians: a large gold keystone with two smaller keystones on either side, and an eagle perched atop it all. The keystone represents Pennsylvania’s central role in forming the United States Constitution as well as being known as “the Keystone State”. Similarly, the eagle reflects America’s national symbol – reflecting upon Pennsylvania’s contribution to America’s birth by housing Philadelphia which served as then-nation’s Capital during Colonial times!
It should come as no surprise that such a beautifully designed emblem doesn’t just happen overnight or randomly. It took many years of hard work and effort from dedicated citizens who prided themselves on their state identity to create this iconic symbol.
In 1794, when Pennsylvania became one of the first states to adopt an official seal identifying itself independently from other American colonies–it depicted images relating to agriculture and culture rather than historic figures. However, by 1785–1859 this seal increasingly being replaced by what became ‘State arms’ which helped encourage consistency amongst Government officials regarding official symbolism.
Years later, this seal served as inspiration for designers tasked with creating a new state flag emblem design statewide competition. A succession of designers submitted their ideas with varying levels of success before finally reaching Anna Johnson McPharlin; winner due to popularity vote among public servants at the writing stylus company in Philadelphia where Johnson worked. Beyond just beautiful appearance, her design combines symbolize the history of this great state making it a unifying piece that everyone can proudly display!
Today, the Pennsylvania flag has become not only one of the most eye-catching and iconic symbols of our state but also an emblem we can all be proud to rally behind.
In conclusion, as Pennsylvanians come together to celebrate this special anniversary date on June 13th, let’s take a moment to reflect on how far we have come and how much our beloved state has achieved since its historic founding. Let’s honor this important day by flying our state flag high with pride for all to see!