Flag of Illinois

The first Illinois state flag was officially adopted in 1915, a result of the efforts of Mrs. Ella Park Lawrence and the Daughters of the American Revolution. Miss Lucy Derwent's design was selected from among 35 entries submitted by chapters of the D.A.R. All State Flags

The Illinois flag features the central image of the state seal on a field of white (the Illinois seal features an eagle holding a banner in its beak with the state motto written on it; “State Sovereignty, National Union”).  The current version of the Illinois state seal was authorized in 1867. August 26, 1818, is the date that the first Illinois Constitution was signed.

In 1969 the current flag design was approved (the word "ILLINOIS" was added, as well as the sun on Lake Michigan's horizon in the background).