Massachusetts Flag
Massachusetts Flag Officially Adopted: March 21, 1908
The Massachusetts state flag shows a white field with the state seal or coat of arms in the center. It is a blue shield emblazoned with the image of a Native American, Massachusett (the native people that inhabited the area which is now Greater Boston). He holds a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other. The arrow is pointing downward representing peace.
The white star represents Massachusetts as one of the original thirteen states. Around the shield is a blue ribbon with the motto: ” By the Sword We Seek Peace, but Peace Only Under Liberty.” Above the shield is an arm and sword, representing the first part of the Massachusetts’ state motto.