Official Illinois State Flag 1915 – Present (Printed Polyester)
The Illinois State Flag was first adopted on July 6, 1915. The 1915 version consisted of the Great Seal of the State of Illinois centered on a white background. In 1970, the flag was updated to its current design which simply involved adding the word “Illinois” below the seal. This change was made because many people did not recognize the flag as being that of the State of Illinois. The Great Seal was originally designed and adopted in 1819, which was the year after Illinois gained statehood. It was redesigned in 1839 and redesigned again for the third and final time in 1868 and has not changed since then. The current design consists of a bald eagle holding in one of its talons, a shield with thirteen alternating red and white stripes topped by thirteen white stars on a blue field symbolizing the original thirteen states while the olive branch below the shield stands for peace. The eagle holds a red banner in its beak that is inscribed with the state’s motto “State Sovereignty, National Union”. The rock, on which the eagle is perched is written “1818” and “1868” which represent the year Illinois became a state and the year that the state seal was most recently redesigned. The plains of Illinois are represented by the rising sun over the prairie. The Illinois State flag is one of eight US state flags to feature an eagle as part of the design. The other seven states are Oregon, Utah, North Dakota, Michigan, Iowa, New York, and Pennsylvania.
The Great Seal and the flag itself have been significant symbols of Illinois for over a century and are used to represent the state in official capacities. The flag is displayed at the Illinois State Capitol building, as well as in government buildings, schools, and other public places throughout the state. The history of the Illinois Flag reflects the state’s rich history and its place as one of the founding members of the United States. The flag’s design and symbolism serve as a reminder of the state’s commitment to peace and preparedness, as well as its history and heritage.
Printed polyester Illinois State flag. The material is very lightweight and will fly nicely in light breezes. The artwork is visible from both sides of the flag.
- One solid piece of printed, hemmed fabric
- Very lightweight printed polyester that will fly nicely in the slightest breeze.
- Bright colors
- 4 rows of stitching on the fly end to prevent premature fraying
- Reinforced header with brass grommets
- Flag size: 3′ x 5′