Flag of Wyoming facts for kids
 |
|
| Use | Civil and state flag |
|---|---|
| Proportion | 7:10 |
| Adopted | January 31, 1917 |
The flag of the state of Wyoming is a special symbol for the state. It shows the shape of an American bison (a type of buffalo). The flag has three main colors: red, white, and blue. Each color and the bison itself have important meanings that tell a story about Wyoming.
What Do the Colors and Symbols Mean?
The colors on the Wyoming flag are full of meaning:
- The red color stands for the Native Americans who first lived in the area. It also represents the brave pioneers who explored and settled Wyoming. This color reminds us of the sacrifices they made.
- The white color is a symbol of being pure and honest. It shows the good character of the people of Wyoming.
- The blue color represents the wide-open skies and the tall, distant mountains of Wyoming. It also means loyalty, fairness, and strength.
The bison (buffalo) on the flag is a very important animal in Wyoming. It shows the amazing wildlife found in the state. The special mark on the bison is like a brand used on farm animals. This reminds people of Wyoming's history with ranching and livestock.
How the Flag Was Chosen
The story of the Wyoming flag began in 1916. A group called the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) decided to hold a contest. They invited people to design a new flag for Wyoming. Many people sent in their ideas. The winner would receive $20, which was a good prize back then!
Out of 37 entries, a drawing by Verna Keays was chosen. She had just finished studying art in Chicago. On January 31, 1917, the governor of Wyoming, Robert D. Carey, signed a law. This made Verna Keays' bison flag the official state flag.
A smart professor named Grace Raymond Hebard from the University of Wyoming helped with the flag's design. She was also a strong supporter of women's rights. Verna Keays' first design had the bison facing the "fly" (the side of the flag that waves in the wind). This showed the bison's freedom to roam. However, Grace Hebard thought the flag would look better if the bison faced the "hoist" (the side closest to the flagpole). Animals on flags usually face this way, as if looking into the wind.
Even though the change was never officially voted on, all the flags made after that showed the bison facing the hoist. So, the flag you see today has the bison looking towards the flagpole.
In 2001, a group that studies flags, the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA), ranked flags from different places. They looked at flags from Canada, U.S. states, and U.S. territories. Wyoming's flag was ranked 23rd out of 72 flags for its design. This shows it's considered a well-designed and meaningful flag!
- Wyoming (U.S.) at Flags of the World
See also
In Spanish: Bandera de Wyoming para niños
