Known as the first state, Dec. 1787

Year Flag Adopted: 1913

Flag Colors: Colonial blue, buff

Adopted on July 24, 1913, the state flag has a background of colonial blue surrounding a diamond of buff color in which the coat of arms of the state of Delaware is placed. Below the diamond are the words "December 7, 1787", indicating the day on which Delaware was the first state to ratify the federal Constitution. Because of this action, Delaware became the first state in the Union, and is, therefore, accorded the first position in such national events as presidential inaugurations. According to members of the original commission established to design the flag, the shades of buff and colonial blue represent those of the uniform of General George Washington as shown on a specific plate from an official U.S. Army publication. (ref delaware.gov, facts and symbols) January 2014

Elements of The Coat of Arms: The Wheat Sheaf was adapted from the Sussex County seal and signifies the agricultural vitality of Delaware. The Ship is a symbol of New Castle County's ship building industry and Delaware's extensive coastal commerce. Corn is taken from the Kent County seal and symbolizes the agricultural basis of Delaware's economy. The Farmer with the hoe represents the central role of farming to the state. The Militiaman with his musket recognizes the crucial role of the citizen-soldier to the maintenance of American liberties. The Ox represents the importance of animal husbandry to the state economy. The Water (above the Ox) stands for the Delaware River, the main stay of the state's commerce and transportation. The Motto “Liberty and Independence” was derived from the Order of Cincinnati and approved in 1847. (ref: delaware.gov)