Facts About The Ohio State Flag
Every state in the United States has a flag. However, the Ohio state flag is the only one in a shape other than a rectangle, and its design is filled with symbolism.
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General History
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The first time Ohio's state flag flew, it flew in Buffalo, New York on top of the Ohio building for the 1901 Pan-American Exposition. Its designer, John Eisemann, was the winning bidder for the design, and he had it patented. The flag was adopted by the Ohio state legislature in 1902 and is the only state flag in the U.S. that has a swallowtail shape.
Design
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The large blue triangle on the Ohio flag represents the state's hills and valleys, while the stripes symbolize the roads and waterways. Thirteen stars grouped around the circle represent the original states of the union, while the four stars grouped around the point of the triangle bring the total number of stars on the flag to 17, representing Ohio as the 17th state to enter the union. The white circle with a red center suggests Ohio's nickname, "The Buckeye State." The circle is also said to represent the "O" in Ohio.
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Display
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According to Ohio state law, flying the flag at state buildings and public institutions, such as schools and parks, is encouraged. When displayed, the flag should be flown every day -- as long as the weather permits -- from sunrise until sunset. However, if flown together with the United States flag, the Ohio flag should not be bigger than the American flag.
Pledge
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According to Ohio law, the official pledge to the Ohio state flag is, "I salute the flag of the state of Ohio and pledge to the Buckeye State respect and loyalty." However, the pledge should not replace, preempt or be recited before the pledge of allegiance to the American flag.
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References
- Photo Credit ohio flagge symbol image by Marty Kropp from Fotolia.com
