The Benny Benson Memorial located in Seward, Alaska. Photo by Ryan Prager.
Alaska's Flag
Alaska's state flag features The Big Dipper ("Ursa Major" or "Great Bear" constellation) as a symbol of strength, and Polaris (the North Star ) as a symbol of Alaska's northern location and "the ever constant star for the mariner, the explorer, hunter, trapper, prospector, woodsman, and the surveyor..." (quote from legislation). The blue background represents the sky, sea, lakes, and wildflowers of Alaska (the official state flower is also blue). All State Flags
History of Alaska's Flag
The Alaska state flag (selected for its simplicity, originality, and symbolism) was created by Benny Benson, a 13-year-old 7th grader from an orphanage in Seward, Alaska (John Bell Bensona; 1913-1972). Seward honors him with a monument on 3rd Avenue. Benny entered a flag design contest to create a symbol for the territory of Alaska. Little did he know that his simple yet profound design would become a lasting emblem of Alaskan pride. Benny submitted this description with his design:
"The blue field is for the Alaska sky and the forget-me-not, an Alaskan flower. The North Star is for the future state of Alaska, the most northerly in the union. The Dipper is for the Great Bear – symbolizing strength."
Alaska's state song is titled "Alaska's Flag."
Notes: The North star is also found on the state flag of Maine. The Big Dipper constellation also contains "The Delaware Diamond" (state star of Delaware).
