Flying High Since 1911: The Story of Michigan’s State Flag

When it comes to state flags, Michigan’s is more than just a blue field and some fancy heraldry. It is a patchwork of forgotten history, political pride, and a moose with very strong side-eye. On August 1, 1911, the Great Lakes State officially adopted the flag we know today, complete with its now-iconic coat of arms. But this wasn’t the first flag to represent Michigan. Far from it. In fact, the state has had three official flags. The stories behind the first two are as colorful as the designs themselves.

A Flag with Wildlife—and Latin

The current Michigan state flag features the state’s coat of arms, which includes a bald eagle (representing the United States), a moose and elk (symbolizing Michigan’s natural beauty), and not one but three Latin mottos. These include “E Pluribus Unum” (Out of many, one), “Tuebor” (I will defend), and “Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice” (If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you). All of this is set against a plain, dark blue field. It is similar in style to many other U.S. state flags.

A Tale of Three Flags

Before the current design, Michigan had two previous state flags—both of which are now lost to history. The first, adopted in 1837, was remarkable not just for its elaborate imagery, but for one very unique detail: it featured a portrait of Michigan’s first governor, Stevens T. Mason. This makes him the only real person besides George Washington to appear on a state flag. How’s that for gubernatorial pride?

The second flag came into use in 1865. After being recommended by Adjutant-General John Robertson and approved by Governor Henry Crapo. One side featured the Michigan coat of arms; the other displayed the U.S. coat of arms. It made its first public appearance on July 4, 1865, at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery at Gettysburg.

Caroline Campbell’s Contribution

Fast forward to the early 20th century, when Caroline Campbell, a determined historian and patriot, rediscovered the original design. Inspired by its historical importance, she championed the movement to adopt a new state flag that honored Michigan’s past while aligning with more modern sensibilities. Thanks to her efforts, the current flag was officially adopted on August 1, 1911. Campbell also advocated for the design of the governor’s flag, which shares elements with the original 1837 version.

While Michigan’s flag may not be the flashiest of the fifty, it’s got stories embedded in its fibers—from Civil War tributes to gubernatorial portraits to Latin phrases that would make a Roman scholar smile. So next time you see it waving in the breeze, remember: behind those elk and moose lies a surprisingly rich tapestry of Michigan history.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.