Flag of South Dakota

Proportions: 3:5 South Dakota Flag Description:
The flag of South Dakota consists of a light blue base with the state seal on top of the yellow rays of the sun. 'South Dakota the Mount Rushmore State' is written in yellow and the words encircle the sun.

South Dakota Flag Meaning:
The seal represents the state's diversity of industry and resources. The farmer symbolizes agriculture, the smelter represents manufacturing and mining, the trees represent timber and the steamship represents commerce. Across the top of the picture is the state motto: Under God the People Rule. The year 1889 represents the date South Dakota was admitted to the Union. The sun's rays represent South Dakota's earlier nickname as the Sunshine State.

South Dakota Flag History:
The basic design of the flag was adopted in March 1963. The flag was modified, on July 1, 1992, to include the state's official nickname. South Dakota is the 40th state of the union, gaining statehood on Nov. 2, 1889. The state seal was adopted in 1885.

Interesting South Dakota Facts:
South Dakota's state nickname is The Mount Rushmore State.