Delaware State Flag

Date adopted: Jul 24, 1913

The flag of Delaware features a distinctive design with historical significance. It consists of a buff-colored diamond on a field of colonial blue, containing the state's coat of arms. Below the diamond, the date "December 7, 1787," commemorates Delaware's status as the first state to ratify the United States Constitution. The flag's colors are inspired by the uniform of General George Washington. The coat of arms within the diamond depicts horizontal orange, blue, and white stripes with symbols representing Delaware's agriculture, including a sheaf of wheat, an ear of corn, and an ox on grass. Above the shield is a sailing ship, flanked by a farmer and a soldier. The state motto, "Liberty and Independence," is inscribed below the shield. This flag was officially adopted on July 24, 1913. During the American Civil War, Delaware regiments used a similar design. The flag's colors, colonial blue and buff, are defined by the Textile Color Card Association, and the specific colors of the elements on the flag are also prescribed by law.