The Oregon State Flag is the only state flag that displays a
different design on each side. Adopted in 1925, the Oregon state flag is colored navy
blue with gold lettering and symbols. Certain occasions demand a more formal version of
the Oregon state flag and so a "dress" or "parade" version of the flag is fringed in
gold. The Oregon State Flag face displays the words "STATE OF OREGON" above a gold
shield surrounded by thirty-three stars. The stars represent Oregon as the thirty-third
state to be admitted to the union. Below the shield is the date "1859" in gold numerals.
This is the year that Oregon was admitted to the union. Depicted on the shield on the
Oregon state flag, is a blazing sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, mountains, forests
and a Conestoga wagon all representing the natural resources and beauty of Oregon state
and the early settlers to the territory.
A plow, a sheaf of wheat and a pickax represent the early industry of the state;
agriculture and mining. Two ships are shown. The departing British ship and arriving
American ship are said to represent that claim to the land was by both Great Britain and
The United States at the same time. Another interpretation has the departure and arrival
as representative of trade or commerce. The crest of the shield is the American eagle.
Also displayed on the Oregon State Flag is a banner with the words "The Union." The
eagle and the banner express support for "The Union" that Oregon joined in 1859. With a
nickname of "The Beaver State" one might easily guess the depiction on one side of the
Oregon state flag. Indeed, the Oregon State Animal makes a strong showing on the Oregon
State Flag.
