Celebrating Illinois Statehood!
On this day in 1818, the Land of Lincoln officially became the 21st state in the USA.
The Illinois state flag, adopted in 1915, features a bald eagle holding a shield with 13 stripes and 13 stars, symbolizing the original 13 colonies. The eagle represents the United States, and the shield represents Illinois’s role in the Union.
The state’s official nickname is the “Prairie State,” reflecting its vast open landscapes. The state motto “State Sovereignty, National Union” reflects Illinois’ commitment to both state and national interests.
Fun Facts:
The world’s first Skyscraper was built in Chicago in 1885, forever changing how city skylines take shape.
Illinois is home to the first franchised McDonald’s, opened in Des Plaines in 1955.
The Chicago River is dyed green every St. Patrick’s Day, an annual tradition dating back to 1962!
Happy Statehood Day, Illinois! Embrace your “Prairie State” spirit!