Massachusetts State Flag

Date adopted: Jul 3, 1971

The flag of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a rich historical background. It was first represented by official but limited-purpose flags from 1676 and gained its current form in 1907. The flag features the state coat of arms on a white field, with the shield depicting an Algonquian Native American with a bow and arrow, symbolizing peace. Above the shield is the state military crest, an arm holding a sword aloft to represent the American Revolution and the pursuit of liberty. The flag has been the subject of redesign discussions, with a commission established in 2021 to explore changes reflecting the state's commitment to peace, justice, liberty, and equality. However, as of March 2023, no consensus has been reached on a new design, and the issue appears to be on hold for the time being.