The flag of Indiana was officially adopted on May 31, 1917. It was the first flag formally recognized by the state and has remained the basic design ever since, with later statutes clarifying exact production details. The banner is widely displayed at state buildings, schools, and public events and is a common emblem of Indiana identity.

Design and appearance

The flag presents a dark blue field centered by a stylized gold torch surrounded by nineteen gold stars and radiating rays. The torch is rendered in a simplified, stylized form with rays emanating from it to suggest light. The overall composition is compact and symmetrical so the key elements remain visible when the flag is flown.

Symbolism

The torch symbolizes liberty and enlightenment; the rays stand for the spreading of those ideals. The nineteen stars mark Indiana’s numerical order among the states of the Union. In common descriptions the stars are grouped to point to historical relationships: an outer circle representing the original states, an inner arc of additional stars, and one larger star reserved for the state of Indiana itself.

History and adoption

The design was created by Paul Hadley and selected through a public design competition; the result was adopted by the state on May 31, 1917. As the first official state flag for Indiana, its appearance filled a gap: previously the state had no single, standardized banner for official use. Since adoption, lawmakers have passed statutes to standardize dimensions, colors, and manufacturing so flags produced for government use are consistent.

Use, etiquette, and notable facts

Indiana’s flag is used for ceremonial occasions, on state property, and by citizens who wish to display state pride. Etiquette for display follows general U.S. flag practice: the state flag is shown in addition to, not instead of, the national flag. The design’s longevity—with few substantive changes—makes it one of the more stable state emblems in the United States.

References and further reading