Flag History
Massachusetts first had a flag that had a different design on each side. In 1971, the flag was changed and only depicts the original front design. It is of a Native American on a blue shield. He is holding a bow in one hand and an arrow in the other, pointed down to symbolize peace. A crest above the shield shows an arm bent at the elbow, hand holding a sword. This illustrates the state motto, "By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty."
Flag Adopted: 1971
State Nickname: The Bay State
State Motto: By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty.
Area: 8,284 square miles
Approximate Population: 5.8 million
Capital: Boston
Largest City: Boston
Major Products: dairy products, poultry, fruit, timber, fish
State Bird: Chickadee
State Tree: American Elm
State Flower: Mayflower
