A Flag Day Salute to Wyoming’s Proud Bison

On June 14, 1777, the United States Continental Congress officially adopted
the stars and stripes as our national symbol. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson declared June 14th as Flag Day. In 1949, National Flag Day was established by an act of Congress.

Here in Wyoming, we have another red, white and blue emblem that represents freedom and equality.

Our iconic Bison flag was officially adopted in 1917. One year earlier, the Wyoming chapter of the Daughters of the Revolution sponsored a contest to design a state flag. 37 entries were submitted, including a drawing by artist Verna Keays that won the $20 cash prize.

Keays' drawing was later altered by University of Wyoming professor Grace Raymond Hebarb, who suggested the silhouette of the Bison face towards the hoist of the flag.

Although the change was never officially approved by the Wyoming legislature, the original design was revised after the first printing and has remained modified ever since.

Over the years, several surveys have ranked Wyoming's flag among the best in the country.  A recent publication from the website Thrillist named it as the sixth best state flag in America.

In addition to our flag, Wyoming is also synonymous with one of the most recognizable state logos in the nation; our equally iconic Bucking Horse and Rider trademark which has represented the Cowboy State since 1936.