Happy 116th Statehood Anniversary to the Sooner State!
Oklahoma became the 46th state on Nov 16, 1907.
Oklahoma’s state flag features a blue field with a traditional Osage Nation buffalo-skin shield accompanied by seven eagle feathers. The shield is adorned with small crosses and olive branches.
What do these symbols mean? Let’s take a closer look.
- Osage Nation Buffalo-Skin Shield: This symbol pays homage to the Native American heritage of the state, with a specific nod to the Osage Nation. This iconic element recognizes and honors its indigenous roots.
- Eagle Feathers: Surrounding the shield are seven eagle feathers, symbolizing the strength and heritage of the Choctaw, Chickasaw, Cherokee, Creek, Seminole, Quapaw, and Osage tribes.
- Crosses and Olive Branches: The shield features small crosses, representing the blending of Native American and European cultures in the region. Olive branches on the shield symbolize aspirations for peace.
- Blue Field: The blue field represents devotion, emphasizing the unity and unwavering commitment of the people of Oklahoma.
Together, these symbols reflect the diverse cultural influences and desire for harmony in the state of Oklahoma.
Let’s finish with a few fun facts you may not know about Oklahoma:
- The State is the only producer of iodine in the United States, ranking third globally behind Chile and Japan.
- Oklahoma is called the Sooner State after the settlers who arrived in the territory sooner than the stipulated start time of the Land Run of 1889.
- Shopping carts were invented in Oklahoma in 1936!
- In 2007, Oklahoma designated watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) as the official state vegetable. Wait, what?!
Happy Statehood Anniversary, Oklahomans. Keep flying those flags with pride across America’s heartland!!