The Maine state flag was adopted in 1909 and features the state coat of arms with a pine tree, moose, sailor, and peasant. The blue background represents the US flag, and the North Star symbolizes Maine’s seafaring heritage.
The state flag of Maine as it flies today was adopted on February 24, 1909. The flag generally depicts the state of the coat of arms of Maine, against a dark blue background. State flag law generally requires the Maine state flag to be bordered with a 2-inch (5.08 centimeters) knotted fringe of gold silk. Above the coat of arms of Maine on the Maine state flag, there is generally a representation of the North Star and a small banner inscribed with the state’s Latin motto, “I direct” or “I lead.” A banner below the state coat of arms typically bears the state name.
The symbolism on the Maine state flag is said to represent the state’s natural attributes, agriculture, industry, and resources. The state of Maine is often referred to as the Pine State, and a pine tree appears in the center of the state coat of arms as depicted on the state flag. A resting moose is displayed under this tree and together they are believed to represent native Maine wildlife.
The state coat of arms also depicts a sailor and a peasant standing on either side of the shield. These represent shipping and agriculture, two of Maine’s most traditional industries. The Maine state flag also depicts the ocean and sky in the background of its state coat of arms, as a further nod to Maine’s nautical prowess, as well as its agricultural pride.
Prior to the adoption of this modern flag, Maine used another state flag design. The decision to designate a state flag was originally made on March 21, 1901 by the Maine state legislature. The original design depicted a pine tree in the center of a beige background. In the upper left corner of this tree was a blue star. This design served as the state flag of Maine until February 1909, when the legislature voted to replace it with the current design.
The blue background of the current Maine state flag is the same shade of blue that appears on the flag of the United States. Maine’s state motto and use of the North Star on the state flag are a nod to Maine’s seafaring heritage and the historic importance of the North Star to navigation. Travelers by both sea and land have relied on the North Star to show north for much of human history.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
