Virginia State Flag

Adopted in 1861.

The state flag of Virginia was adopted in 1861.

Because Virginia was the first part of the country to be settled by English colonists, the state flag proudly represents Virginia's love of freedom. A deep blue field contains the seal of Virginia with the Latin motto " Sic Semper Tyrannis" - "Thus Always to Tyrants". Adopted in 1776. The two figures are acting out the meaning of the motto. Both are dressed as warriors. The woman, Virtue, represents Virginia. The man holding a scourge and chain shows that he is a tyrant. His fallen crown is nearby.

Official description from the CODE OF VIRGINIA

§ 7.1-32. Flag of the Commonwealth.

The flag of the Commonwealth shall hereafter be made of bunting or merino. It shall be a deep blue field, with a circular white centre of the same material. Upon this circle shall be painted or embroidered, to show on both sides alike, the coat of arms of the Commonwealth, as described in § 7.1-26 for the obverse of the great seal of the Commonwealth; and there shall be a white silk fringe on the outer edge, furthest from the flagstaff. This shall be known and respected as the flag of Virginia.

(Code 1950, § 7-32; 1966, c. 102.)

§ 7.1-33. Governor to prescribe size of flag.

The Governor shall regulate the size and dimensions of the flag proper for forts, arsenals and public buildings, for ships-of-war and merchant marine, for troops in the field, respectively, and for any other purpose, according to his discretion; which regulations shall be proclaimed and published by him as occasion may require.

(Code 1950, § 7-33; 1966, c. 102.)

§ 7.1-34. Director of Purchases and Supply to have available flags of the Commonwealth for sale.

The Director of the Department of Purchases and Supply shall have available at all times flags of the Commonwealth of Virginia, to be offered for sale to the public in such manner as the Director may determine.

Such flags shall be of good quality, shall conform to the specifications therefor prescribed in § 7.1-32, and shall be offered in the various sizes prescribed by the Governor pursuant to § 7.1-33.

The prices to be charged for such flags shall be at cost as determined by the Director.

(Code 1950, § 7-33.1; 1958, c. 553; 1960, c. 347; 1966, c. 102.)
§ 7.1-35. When flag to be suspended over Capitol.

During the sessions of either house of the General Assembly the flag of the Commonwealth shall be kept raised over the Capitol, or other place of session, and the Director of the Division of Engineering and Buildings shall see that the same be done.

(Code 1950, § 7-34; 1966, c. 102; 1970, c. 561.)
§ 7.1-36.

Repealed by Acts 1980, c. 559.

Commonwealth