The State Flag of New Jersey

The state flag of New Jersey consists of the Great Seal of the State of New Jersey on a yellow brown background. Adopted in 1896, the flag has a rich history.

Colors

The color was originally chosen, indirectly, by George Washington. The Continental army uniforms consisted of dark blue with buff trimmings. These trimmings were reserved for Washington himself and generals and other high ranking officers. However, in 1780, it was directed that the trimmings of every regiment's uniform match that of the unit's state.

Seal

Designed by Pierre Eugene du Simitiere in 1777, the seal was edited and changed in 1928. The seal of New Jersey consists of a shield with three plows on its cover, a knight's helmet, ladies Liberty and Ceres, a horse's head and the state motto, "Liberty and Prosperity." The plows are a hat tip to New Jersey's agricultural tradition and history, while the shield represents protection. Liberty is armed, protecting her namesake, Liberty, while Ceres holds a cornucopia, representing plentifulness, bounty and prosperity. The horse is the state animal, so its head is included.

With a rich history, it is only fitting that the state flag of New Jersey reflect its storied past. The Great Seal of the State of New Jersey is rich in symbolism and meaning, while the buff color is tied to the father of the United States of America. The tapestry representing the state has gone through little change, perhaps representative of the stability of the state.