Seal of Wisconsin facts for kids
The Great Seal of the State of Wisconsin is an important symbol for the U.S. state of Wisconsin. It is like an official stamp that represents the state government and its history. You can often see it on official documents, buildings, and even the state flag.
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What Does the Seal Look Like?
The Great Seal of Wisconsin is packed with symbols that tell a story about the state. It has the words "Great Seal of the State of Wisconsin" written around the top edge.
Symbols and Their Meanings
At the very top of the seal, you'll see the word Forward. This is Wisconsin's state motto, meaning the state is always looking to the future and making progress. Right below the motto is a badger, which is Wisconsin's state animal. That's why Wisconsin is often called "The Badger State"!
In the middle of the seal, there's a large shield. On the left side of the shield, you'll see a sailor. On the right side, there's a miner. These two figures represent important jobs and industries that were very big when Wisconsin first became a state. The sailor stands for shipping and trade on the water, while the miner represents the state's rich mining history.
Around the edges of the main shield, there are four smaller symbols:
- A plough (or plow) in the top left corner stands for farming and agriculture.
- A pick and shovel in the top right corner also represent mining.
- An arm and hammer in the bottom left corner symbolize manufacturing and industry.
- An anchor in the bottom right corner represents shipping and navigation.
In the very center of the large shield, there is a smaller shield. This is the official United States shield, which has the motto E Pluribus Unum. This Latin phrase means "Out of Many, One," reminding us that the United States is made up of many states working together as one nation.
At the bottom of the seal, you'll find a cornucopia. This is a horn-shaped basket overflowing with fruits and vegetables, symbolizing plenty and prosperity. Next to it are bars of lead, which point back to Wisconsin's early mining industry, especially lead mining. Below these, there are 13 stars. These stars represent the original 13 states that formed the United States.
The Wisconsin State Flag
The state flag of Wisconsin proudly displays the Great Seal. It features the seal placed right in the center of a blue background. This shows how important the seal is as a symbol of the state.
Images for kids
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Decorative glass pane in Milwaukee City Hall, containing the seal
