The Flag of Connecticut: History, Meaning, and Symbolism

Flags are some of the most distinctive symbols around and are widely known for their often bright and vibrant colors. They can stand as a beacon of hope, a symbol of power, or represent history or loss. Although there are many, many flags flown all across the world, rarely are two the same. Common flag items include crosses, crescents, animals, and even coats of arms. The flag of Connecticut contains a central coat of arms and a Latin inscription beneath it. But just what does it mean? Let’s find out!

Characteristics of Connecticut

Connecticut is the southernmost state in the New England region of the US and is named for the Connecticut River, which runs through its center. Connecticut lies in the transition zone between a humid continental climate and a humid subtropical climate. As a result, the northern region typically has colder winters. Although it is one of the smallest states, it is incredibly diverse with numerous mountains, hills, marshes, and coastal areas. However, it does not technically have an oceanic coastline as it sits on an estuary – the Long Island Sound.

Connecticut is home to a vast array of animals. Although rare in the state with a population of only around 100, moose are the largest land animal in Connecticut. However, if you venture out into the open water, you can find the endangered sperm whale, which is the state animal because of Connecticut’s whaling history.

Flora and fauna aside, Connecticut is known for it’s long-disputed border with Massachusetts. A land survey in 1642 placed the boundary between the two in the wrong place. This resulted in many years of animosity and differing claims to the land. Eventually, the dispute was settled in the early 1800s with a compromise which involves a 2.5 mile square notch in Connecticut’s northern border. This is known as the Granby Notch or the Southwick Jog. It encompasses the town of Southwick, which is therefore the southernmost town in western Massachusetts.

Previous Flags of Connecticut

Although Connecticut did not previously have an official flag, several flags were flown in the state – chiefly those of New England. All of the flags of New England are derived from the first Red Ensign flag, which was also known as the Red Duster. This flag was comprised of a red background with the St. George’s Cross in the upper left-hand corner. However, the first flag of New England also had a pine tree in the upper left corner of the cross. The pine tree was added to the flag by New Englanders who wanted to further distinguish themselves. This flag was first seen in 1686 and became known as the “Red Flag of New England”.

The New England flag then changed slightly after the union of England and Scotland. It kept the same basic design of a red background but now had the Union Jack flag in the corner, as well as the added pine tree. However, eventually the New England flag was flown without the Union Jack – simply becoming a red field with the pine tree on a white background in the upper corner.

History of the Flag of Connecticut

The current flag of Connecticut was officially adopted in June 1897, although it had been in use long before then. It is comprised of a royal blue background with a coat of arms in the center. The coat of arms is a white shield, which has three grapevines in it, each of which bears three purple bunches of grapes. Beneath the coat of arms is a scroll with a Latin inscription of the words, “Qui transtulit sustinet” which translate to “He who transplanted sustains”. The coat of arms is the seal of Connecticut, while the inscription is the state motto.

The coat of arms is based on the seal of Saybrook Colony. This was an English colony that was formed at the mouth of the Connecticut River. The seal was designed by George Fenwick when the colony was established in 1639. The original seal had 15 grapevines on it with a hand in the upper left corner holding a scroll. Connecticut Colony bought Saybrook Colony in 1644 and the seal became the seal of Connecticut Colony.

Symbolism and Meaning

Although the original seal became that of Connecticut Colony, it was eventually changed in 1711. At this time, the number of grapevines were reduced from 15 to three. Also, the position of the scroll and motto were rearranged. The three grapevines can represent two things: the three oldest towns in Connecticut – Hartford, Wethersfield, and Windsor – or the three settlements which all became part of Connecticut – Connecticut Colony, New Haven Colony, and Saybrook Colony.

The actual origin of the motto is also uncertain. However, it is widely believed that it is based on the 80^th psalm of the Bible which reads, “Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt: Thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it”.

Furthermore, the vines on the coat of arms symbolize the colony that was planted and grew in the wilderness. As per the motto, the one that brought the vine [colony] continues to take care of it.

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