In 1920, the Daughters of the American Revolution suggested
that a new design be adopted. The simple and meaningful design features an
interpretation of an ancient symbol of the sun as found on a late 19th century water jar
from Zia Pueblo. This red symbol is called a "Zia" and is centered on a field of yellow.
Four is the sacred number of the Zia and can be found repeated in the four points
radiating from the circle. The number four is embodied in the four points of the of the
compass, North, East, South and West; in the four seasons of the year Spring, Summer,
Autumn and Winter; in the 24 hours of each day by sunrise, noon, evening and night; by
four seasons of life, childhood, youth, adulthood and old age. The Zia also believed
that with life came four sacred obligations: development of a strong body, a clear mind,
a pure spirit and devotion to the welfare of people/family. All of these things are
bound together within the circle of life. The red and yellow colors are the colors of
Isabel of Castilla brought to the continent by the Spanish Conquistadors.
