History Of Maine Flag

By Eros Right


The earliest human habitation in what is now Maine can be traced back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by the burial mounds of the Red Paint people found in the south-central part of the state. The Native Americans who came later left enormous shell heaps, variously estimated to be from 1,000 to 5,000 years old. At the time of settlement by Europeans, the Abnaki were scattered along the coast and in some inland areas.

The first white settlement was established by the Plymouth Company at Popham in 1607, the same year of the settlement at Jamestown, Virginia. Because the Popham colony didn't survive the harsh Maine winters, Jamestown enjoys the distinction of being regarded as America's first permanent settlement.

There are other facts regarding Maine Flag history that should be known. The State Legislature of Maine passed on 21st March 1901, a resolution to constitute a proper Maine Flag. This act stated the criteria for the Maine Flag, regarding the kind of symbols used on it and how they would be displayed. However, the Legislature altered the standards of the flag on 23rd February 1909, thus placing the state coat of arms on the blue flag.

The flag of Maine features the state coat of arms centered on a dark blue background. In the center of the shield, a moose rests under a pine tree while a farmer and seaman stand on either side. The North Star shines above the shield with a red banner beneath that contains the Latin word and state motto, “Dirigo,” meaning “I lead.” Below the shield, a blue banner holds the state’s name.

Beneath the shield, the state name of Maine is written on a blue ribbon. Just above the emblem and below the North Star, "Dirigo", the state motto, which means "I lead" is etched out. As for the symbolism of Maine Flag, the pine tree represents the state's timber industry, the moose is a symbol for the fauna, the sailor represents seafaring activities and commerce and the farmer undoubtedly stand for agriculture practiced in Maine.

The North star (Polaris) also appears on the state flag of Alaska. Polaris is not merely a symbol of guidance travelers have depended on it for many centuries to find their way (it always marks due north). The Flag Company Inc specialized in flag designs offered a special edition of decals and flags to memorize the history of Maine State Flag for the future.




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