Indiana's state flag is a deep blue field with a golden torch in the center, surrounded by 19 stars and rays extending outward. The torch symbolizes liberty and enlightenment, and the 19 stars represent the 19 states that had joined the Union by the time Indiana became a state in 1816. The flag was designed by Mooresville art instructor Paul Hadley and officially adopted in 1917.

The flag that took 100 years to fly

Flags are kind of like state selfies. They're bold, symbolic, and tell a story in one quick glance. And Indiana's state flag? It's glowing with meaning, literally. With its torch, stars, and signature blue-and-gold color scheme, Indiana's flag is more than just a piece of fabric flapping in the breeze. It's a symbol of our Hoosier identity, rich in history, hope, and a little bit of 1916 flair. So, how did this iconic design come to be? Let's take a quick stroll through a piece of Indiana history.

What makes up the flag?

If you've ever seen Indiana's flag, you've probably noticed the flaming torch in the center. That torch isn't just there to look cool, although it does look pretty cool. It stands for liberty and enlightenment, two values Indiana has proudly carried since it became the 19th state in 1816.

The flag features 19 stars in total, representing the states that joined the Union before or alongside Indiana. At the center is a golden torch, symbolizing liberty and enlightenment, with rays extending outward to show the spread of freedom, knowledge, and progress. At the top of the torch, one larger star shines the brightest. That's Indiana, proudly taking its place as the 19th state.