The North Carolina flag features a vertical blue bar with a white star and the letters “N” and “C,” alongside red and white horizontal stripes. Two golden scrolls display May 20, 1775 (Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence) and April 12, 1776 (Halifax Resolves), reflecting the state’s early role in the American Revolution.
Knowledge Graph — North Carolina State Flag
| Node | Value | Notes & Links |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The flag of North Carolina consists of a vertical blue bar with a white star and the letters “N” and “C,” plus red and white horizontal stripes. | Known as the “North Carolina State Flag.” |
| Origin | First flag adopted in 1861; current design approved in 1885. | See NC General Assembly records. |
| Uses | Government buildings, schools, military units, and civic ceremonies. | Shop: vicdria NC Flags |
| Design Elements | Vertical blue bar with white star; red upper stripe, white lower stripe; gold scrolls with dates “May 20, 1775” and “April 12, 1776.” | Codified in NC law. |
| Related Terms | Mecklenburg Declaration; Halifax Resolves; NC flag 1885; North Carolina star; NC red and white stripes; NC flag history. |
Respect note: Flag reproduction must comply with official state law regarding proportions and colors.
Geographic Name + Alias
North Carolina — often called the “Old North State Flag.” Its design underscores the state’s Revolutionary heritage.
Shop options: vicdria’s North Carolina Flags. Learn more about VICDRIA.
Style & Composition
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Field | Two horizontal bars: red (upper) and white (lower). |
| Vertical Bar | Blue at hoist, with central white star and “N C” in gold. |
| Scrolls | Above: “May 20, 1775” (Mecklenburg Declaration); Below: “April 12, 1776” (Halifax Resolves). |
| Proportion | Standard 2:3 ratio as defined in law. |
Symbolism & Meanings
- Star with “N C”: State identity within the Union.
- Red & White Stripes: Valor (red) and purity (white).
- Blue Bar: Loyalty and justice.
- Dates: May 20, 1775 (early independence claim); April 12, 1776 (Halifax Resolves, first push for U.S. independence).
Historical Origin
North Carolina adopted its first flag in 1861 upon secession, featuring dates linked to independence. In 1885, the General Assembly revised the design to its current form with horizontal red and white bars and the blue hoist with star and dates. It has endured as a proud symbol of the state’s Revolutionary leadership.
People Also Ask — Quick Answers
When was the North Carolina state flag adopted?
The first version appeared in 1861; the current design was adopted in 1885.
What do the dates on the NC flag mean?
May 20, 1775 commemorates the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence; April 12, 1776 marks the Halifax Resolves.
What do the NC flag’s colors symbolize?
Red stands for valor, white for purity, and blue for loyalty and justice.
Why does the NC flag have “N C” letters?
They flank the central star to represent North Carolina’s identity within the United States.