Symbol | Official Item

Illinois designated goldrush apples as the official state fruit in 2008 (Illinois also recognizes a state vegetable, state snack food, and a state pie). All State Foods

Illinois is nicknamed "The Prairie State" .  All State Nicknames

The North American prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems on earth. The grasslands of North America began to form about 20 million years ago, but in some areas up to 99 percent of the prairie has been destroyed (in just the last 125-150 years).

The official state motto of Illinois is "State Sovereignty, National Union" and appears on the Illinois state seal and state flag. All State Mottos

According to native-languages.org, the name Illinois is derived from the native American word "Illiniwek," which is the tribal name of the Illini tribe. Literally, the name means "best people."

Many state names originate from native American languages. All State Name Origins

The current version of the Illinois state seal was authorized in 1867 (the central seal design also appears on the state flag). All State Seals

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 kukui tree (Aleurites Moluccana) was designated the official state tree of Hawaii in 1959. All State Trees

The kukui is also called the candlenut tree (because the nut of the kukui was used for candles by early settlers). The blossom of the kukui is also the official island lei material of Moloka'i. The kukui tree is not native to Hawaii (originally from Polynesia).

Hawaii's state nickname is "The Aloha State" (legislation refers to "the aloha state" as the state's popular name). Hawaii is also called "Paradise of the Pacific." All State Nicknames

The name "Hawai'i" is possibly based on the native Hawaiian word for homeland (Owhyhee). All State Name Origins

"Hawai`i Pono`i" by King David Kalakaua and Henri Berger was designated the official song of Hawaii in 1967. All State Songs