Flag of New Jersey

State: New Jersey

Proportions: 2:3, 3:5 or 5:8

New Jersey Flag Description:
The flag of New Jersey consists of a buff-colored base with the state's coat of arms in the center.

New Jersey Flag Meaning:
The buff-colored base of the flag is based on the color, designated by General George Washington in 1779, for the uniforms of the New Jersey Continental Line which were dark blue faced with buff.

The state shield has three ploughs which have two meanings: they represent New Jersey being the third state to join the Union and they symbolize the agricultural tradition of New Jersey. The women supporting the shield are Liberty representing freedom and Ceres (the goddess of agriculture) standing for abundance or plenty. The women are standing on a ribbon with the state motto: Liberty and Prosperity. The year 1776 is imprinted showing the year of New Jersey's independence. The helmet facing forward represents sovereignty and the horse's head denotes strength.

New Jersey Flag History:
The basic design of the New Jersey flag originated in 1780 and it was adopted by the state in 1896. The current flag dates from Mar. 26, 1928 when the coat of arms was modified. In 1780 the Continental War Offices directed New Jersey regiments to carry a state flag with a buff base. New Jersey was the third state of the union gaining statehood on Dec. 18, 1787. It is one of the original 13 colonies that united to form the union of the United States.

Interesting New Jersey Facts:
New Jersey's state nickname is the Garden State.