Brief History of the Arkansas State Flag

The Arkansas flag is a Symbol of our state’s history, heritage, and pride. It is also a reminder of the many challenges we have faced as a state. From the time Arkansas was admitted into the Union until 1961, our state had no official flag. That all changed when a young man named Harold Gray designed a flag for our state.

The design of the Arkansas flag has three stars representing Arkansas’ three distinct regions: the Ozarks, the Delta, and the Ouachitas. The 12 scratches on the outer band of the star represent the 12 founding nations of Arkansas: France, Spain, Mexico, Confederate States of America, United States of America, and 10 American Indian tribes. The red and white color scheme represents Arkansas’ status as part of the 13 original colonies.

The flag’s design is based on a suggestion by Mrs. Guy (Litteral) Bentley of Wabbaseka. In early 1921 she wrote to the chairman of the House Rules Committee proposing that three stars be placed on a field of blue representing Arkansas’ three congressional districts at that time. She also suggested that the stars be connected byScratches to symbolize Arkansans’ “bloody trail” in defending their land. The House adopted her design on February 26, 1913, and it was approved by Governor George W Donaghey on March 4th.

The Arkansas flag is more than just a piece of cloth; it is a Symbol of our state’s history and heritage. Every scratch on that flag represents Arkansans who fought and died for our state. When you see the Arkansas flag flying, remember those who came before us and fought to make Arkansas the great state it is today.