Brief History of the Ohio State Flag

The current Ohio flag was adopted in 1902, although the state seal has been a part of the flag since 1803. The flag consists of a blue triangular field with the Ohio state seal in the center. The word “Ohio” is embroidered in white letters on a red band below the seal.

The current design of the Ohio flag was adopted on May 9, 1902, by a joint resolution of the General Assembly. The resolution directed that the flag be manufactured “of pure white bunting” and that it “conform as nearly as practicable to the following description and dimensions.”

The triangle referred to in the resolution is based on an equilateral triangle, which signifies that three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) are co-equal. The blue color of the triangle represents loyalty, stability, and faithfulness; while the white signifies purity and cleanliness.

The state seal in the center of the flag includes symbols representing many aspects of Ohio’s history and natural resources. In the middle is a circular band with 17 stars representing that Ohio was the 17th state to join the Union. The 4 ships signify commerce on Lake Erie; while wheat, sheaves of corn, and an ox represent Ohio’s agricultural abundance. There are also 6 national flags visible within the seal.

The current Ohio flag was adopted in 1902 and includes many symbols representing different aspects of Ohio’s history and natural resources. The flag is composed of a blue triangular field with a white band across the bottom containing the word “Ohio.” In the center is the state seal which includes 17 stars representing that Ohio was the 17th state to join the Union. Ships represent commerce on Lake Erie while wheat and corn represent Ohio’s agricultural abundance. There are also 6 national flags visible within the seal.