Louisiana State Seal

The Seal of Louisiana, established in 1812 and updated in 2006, is a symbol of the state's rich history and heritage. Originally featuring an eagle with fifteen stars representing the states of the Union, it was changed to depict a pelican on its nest plucking at its breast to feed its young, known as the "pelican in her piety," when Louisiana became a state in 1812, possibly to honor its Catholic heritage and promote inclusivity. Before the Civil War, the motto was "Justice, Union, and Confidence," but after the war, it became "Union, Justice, and Confidence." In 1902, the current Great Seal of the State of Louisiana was adopted, featuring the brown pelican, the state bird, symbolizing Christian charity, and surrounded by the state motto "Union, Justice, Confidence." Traditionally, the pelican had three drops of blood on its chest, a detail restored by legislative action in 2006, emphasizing this meaningful symbol on the state's flag and seal.