Adopted in 1909. State emblem on a blue field; above is a gold five pointed "North star" and a red scroll bearing the state motto "Dirigo" (Latin) meaning "I Lead"; another scroll beneath the emblem is spelled out "MAINE". The colors for the coat of arms / state emblem are not officially prescribed. Maine was a district of Massachusetts until admitted as the 23rd state in 1820. Prior to 1920, the state flag consisted of a New England style green pine tree with a single blue north star on a colonial buff background.