State flags in the US represent individual states and are displayed in state offices alongside the US flag. Each state flag is unique and includes symbols that represent the state’s history and ethos. Some state flags have historical significance, and all-weather designs are used for durability. Damaged flags should be respectfully disposed of, and citizens can request flags that have flown on the Capitol. Historic versions of state flags can also be flown by special arrangement.
A state flag is a flag that represents a specific state within the United States. Most of the state flags in use today were designed around the turn of the 20th century, and several states went through multiple flags before settling into their current incarnations. By convention, state flags are displayed in state offices, usually with a United States flag. The United States flag must be placed higher than a state flag by flying it above the state flag on a flagpole designed to accommodate two flags or by flying it on a higher flagpole if two flagpoles are used.
Each state flag is highly distinctive and includes visual elements designed to convey the history, spirit and ethos associated with the state. State symbols include the grizzly bear on the California flag, the rising sun on the Arizona flag, and the beaver on the Oregon flag. Many state flags, including those for Kansas, Maine, Florida, Idaho, and South Dakota, are emblazoned with the state seal.
For those interested in vexillology, the scientific study of flags, state flags provide a great deal of material of interest. Several states, such as California and Texas, have flags that they used during times of independence or rebellion from the United States. The Civil War led to the development of a number of distinctive state flags in the Southern states, with states expressing their support for secession with mottos such as “Independent Now and Forever,” which appears on the Alabama state flag . These flags can be seen in state archives, and numerous reproductions are available in textbooks and history books.
Flags can be made from cotton and other materials. If a flag will be displayed at night and in inclement weather, an all-weather design is used. An all-weather state flag will resist fading and bleeding, extending the life of the flag so it can be displayed for longer. Once a flag is no longer suitable for display due to fading, tears or other damage, it should be respectfully disposed of and replaced. In several states, community service organizations take back damaged flags and provide new flags for free.
Several states have programs similar to the one adopted by the United States Capitol, allowing individual citizens to request flags that have flown on the Capitol. Citizens can write to their legislators for more information. States may also fly unique flags, such as historic versions of the state flag, by special arrangement. These flags are also available as keepsakes.
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