Oregon flag is the only U.S. state flag with different designs on each side: the state seal with “State of Oregon” and “1859” on the front, and a golden beaver on the reverse. Adopted in 1925, it symbolizes statehood, natural resources, and pioneer heritage.
Knowledge Graph — Oregon State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Links |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Navy blue field with gold letters and shield (front), golden beaver (reverse). | The only U.S. state flag with a two-sided design. |
| Origin | Adopted officially in 1925 by the Oregon Legislative Assembly. | See Wikipedia. |
| Uses | Government, schools, civic events, heritage celebrations. | Shop: vicdria OR Flags |
| Design Elements | State seal, “State of Oregon” text, “1859,” golden beaver reverse. | Seal represents governance; beaver = industry and wildlife. |
| Related Terms | Oregon flag meaning; two-sided state flag; beaver symbol; state seal; Oregon heritage flag. | Related: U.S. vexillology, state symbols. |
Note: Oregon is unique among U.S. states for maintaining a legally defined two-sided flag.
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Geographic Name + Alias
Oregon State Flag — sometimes referred to as the “Beaver Flag” due to the unique reverse-side beaver design. It connects directly to Oregon’s frontier economy and natural heritage.
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Style & Composition
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Field | Navy blue background symbolizing loyalty and justice. |
| Seal | Golden state seal at center with eagle, covered wagon, mountains, and wheat. |
| Text | “State of Oregon” above and “1859” below the seal in gold. |
| Reverse | Golden beaver representing pioneering industry and wildlife. |
| Ratio | Standard ratio 3:5, consistent with U.S. flag proportions. |
Symbolism & Meanings
- State Seal: Symbol of governance, natural beauty, and westward expansion.
- 1859: Year of Oregon’s admission to the Union.
- Golden Beaver: Represents Oregon’s fur trade, resource industries, and resilience.
- Navy Blue: Loyalty, honor, and connection to the U.S. national palette.
Historical Origin
The Oregon state flag was officially adopted in 1925. Its design reflects Oregon’s rich history: the seal symbolizes governance, agriculture, and westward expansion, while the beaver represents Oregon’s fur trade economy and identity as the “Beaver State.”
Oregon remains the only U.S. state to maintain a legally defined double-sided flag. This duality highlights both government authority and natural heritage.
People Also Ask — Quick Answers
Why is Oregon’s flag unique?
It is the only U.S. state flag with different designs on each side — the seal on the front and the beaver on the reverse.
When was the Oregon flag adopted?
The flag was officially adopted in 1925 by the Oregon Legislative Assembly.
What does the beaver symbolize on the Oregon flag?
The beaver represents Oregon’s historic fur trade industry and nickname as the “Beaver State.”
What does the year 1859 mean on the flag?
1859 marks Oregon’s admission into the Union as the 33rd U.S. state.