State Flags & Regional Symbols: History, Meaning & Display Guide

From the Ohio Burgee to the Lone Star Flag, explore the stories behind America’s state flags and shop meaningful state-themed gifts.

The United States is more than a nation — it’s a collection of 50 unique histories, cultures, and symbols. State flags tell the stories of settlers, battles, industries, ideals, and landscapes, while city flags and regional emblems reflect local pride and identity. This guide explores the background behind America’s most iconic state and municipal flags, how to display them properly, and how to choose heritage-based gifts that honor your roots.

Quick Shop: State & Local Flags • State Souvenirs & Gifts • Patriotic Hats

I. How State Flags Came to Be (And Why They Matter)

Most state flags were not adopted at the founding of the country — but generations later, when states wanted visual identities that represented their culture, geography, and role in the union. Today, state flags appear at government buildings, universities, schools, sports events, military bases, and private homes.

What Makes a State Flag “Good”?

Flag experts often judge designs by five principles:

Simplicity: A child should be able to draw it from memory.
Meaningful Symbolism: Colors, shapes, and images should reflect real history or geography.
Limited Colors: Good flags use 2–3 strong contrasting colors.
No Lettering or Seals: Seals are hard to read from a distance (but many states still use them).
Distinctiveness: No copy-paste designs from other states.

Did you know? The New Mexico state flag is often ranked the best in the country by vexillologists — bold symbol, simple colors, instantly recognizable.

II. Spotlight: Iconic State Flags & What They Represent

Ohio — The Only Non-Rectangular State Flag

Ohio’s flag, known as the Ohio Burgee, is the only U.S. state flag that is not a rectangle. Its swallowtail shape is based on military pennants, while the stripes represent the roads and waterways that shaped the state’s commerce. The large circle stands for the letter “O” and the state’s nickname: the Buckeye State.

Buy the Ohio Burgee State Flag →

Did you know? Ohio’s flag was adopted in 1902 — over 100 years after it became a state.

Texas — Lone Star Pride

The Texas flag symbolizes independence and identity as a former republic. The lone star stands for unity as one independent state. The red, white, and blue match the U.S. flag to signify loyalty to the union, while also representing bravery, purity, and loyalty.

Texas History Flag: Lorenzo De Zavala Star →

New York City Flag — Municipal Identity & Heritage

The official New York City flag mirrors the Dutch tricolor (blue, white, orange) and includes the city seal dated 1625 — the year the Dutch founded New Amsterdam. It is flown at government buildings, schools, police stations, and residences throughout the five boroughs.

Buy the Official NYC Flag →

Milwaukee Flag — Reinvented Civic Branding

Milwaukee’s flag features symbols of industry, lakeside culture, and Native heritage. It has become one of the most recognizable municipal banners in America, appearing at breweries, festivals, and sports events.

Official City of Milwaukee Flag →

III. State Souvenirs, Gifts & Collectibles

State identity isn’t just flown on poles — it’s expressed through apparel, ornaments, patches, jewelry, and home décor. These items make thoughtful gifts for:

College students studying out of state
Military families stationed away from home
New homeowners and real estate closings
Travelers, RVers, and road trippers
Heritage displays and genealogy projects

Popular State Gift Picks

How to Display State & City Flags Respectfully

When flown with the U.S. flag, state flags appear below or to the right of Old Glory.
On a single pole, the U.S. flag always flies at the top.
State flags may be flown independently at homes, schools, and businesses.
City flags are often displayed at government buildings, police stations, and civic events.
Flags should be replaced if torn, faded, or badly weathered.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right State or Local Flag

Size: 3×5 ft is standard for home use; 2×3 ft for indoor display; 4×6+ for public poles.
Fabric: Nylon for outdoor durability, polyester for high-wind zones.
Finishing: Look for double-stitched fly ends and brass grommets.
Authenticity: Choose official colors and proportions — not novelty prints.

FAQ

Can I fly a state flag without the U.S. flag?

Yes — state flags may be flown alone at homes and businesses. When flown with the U.S. flag, the American flag must always take the place of honor.

What’s the most unique state flag?

The Ohio Burgee — the only swallowtail flag in the U.S. state system.

Why do some state flags look similar?

Many were designed during the Civil War and used state seals on blue fields — a common design trend at the time.

Show Your Roots. Fly Your Story.
Shop state & local flags and heritage gifts made to last for generations.