Burgee design with 17 stars, circle, and stripes.
Ratio: Swallowtail (5:3 ratio)
Unique in form, the only U.S. state flag that is not a rectangle. A swallowtail burgee of red, white, and blue, with stars and a red disc at centre, the “O” for Ohio and rising sun. Nautical, distinctive, and proudly singular.
Flag Symbolism & Meaning
red and white stripes
Represent the roads and waterways.
blue triangle
Symbolizes Ohio’s hills and valleys.
white circle with red center
Represents the ‘O’ of Ohio and a buckeye.
Historical Timeline
1803
Ohio admitted as the 17th state.
1902
Burgee design flag officially adopted.
Fascinating Facts
1
Only U.S. state flag that is not rectangular.
2
Stars represent Ohio’s order as the 17th state.
For Students & Teachers
Key Learning Points (5-12)
Explain uniqueness of the burgee shape.
Identify the symbolism of stars and circle.
State Information
- Population
- 11,799,448
- Area
- 44,826
- Founded
- 1803-03-01
- Region
- Midwest