The 3 Secret Flags of Michigan's Past You Never Knew Existed

Have you ever looked at Michigan's official state flag and felt... underwhelmed? You're not alone. The North American Vexillological Association (NAVA) famously critiques it as a classic example of a 'Seal on a Bedsheet' – a complex seal emblazoned on a plain background, making it difficult to distinguish from countless others. But what exactly is vexillology, the study of flags, and why does a flag's design matter so profoundly for a state's identity and recognition, as principles from 'Good Flag, Bad Flag' suggest? Michigan, a state steeped in history, has flown under various banners, from early French Colonial Flags to British Colonial Flags, long before our current flag with its State Seal of Michigan and its resolute motto, 'Tuebor' ('I will defend'), came into being. Yet, beyond this official standard, there lies a captivating, largely untold story of unofficial flags that have shaped Michigan's past. Prepare to unfurl history as we reveal three fascinating and forgotten historical flags, each telling a unique and pivotal story about the Wolverine State's journey.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Star Spangled Flags , from the video titled 20 Amazing Facts about Michigan - Star Spangled Flags .

Every state tells a story, and often, that narrative is woven into the very fabric of its most visible symbol: its flag.

Beyond the Blue Bedsheet: Unfurling Michigan's Lost Banners

When one pictures the state flag of Michigan, a familiar image comes to mind: the intricate State Seal of Michigan emblazoned upon a field of deep blue. While instantly recognizable to residents, this design often draws a specific critique from the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA), the world's largest organization dedicated to the study of flags. NAVA frequently categorizes such designs as "Seals on a Bedsheet" – a catch-all term for flags featuring a complex state seal on a plain, monochromatic background. The criticism stems from the belief that such designs are often indistinguishable from one another, lack strong visual identity, and fail to leverage the power of a well-designed flag.

The Art and Science of Flags: Vexillology

To understand the "Seal on a Bedsheet" critique, it's helpful to briefly introduce the field of Vexillology, which is simply the scientific and academic study of flags. Far from being a mere hobby, vexillology delves into the history, symbolism, usage, and design principles of flags, recognizing their profound importance as symbols of identity, unity, and recognition for nations, states, and organizations.

Why does flag design matter so much? A well-designed flag is more than just a piece of cloth; it's a powerful emblem that can:

• Unite people: Creating a shared sense of belonging and pride.
• Represent identity: Visually communicating values, history, and distinctiveness.
• Be easily recognized: Even from a distance or by a child's drawing.

These principles are famously articulated in the popular guide, Good Flag, Bad Flag, published by NAVA. This guide emphasizes core tenets such as simplicity, meaningful symbolism, limited colors, and the avoidance of text or complex seals, advocating for designs that are bold, memorable, and unique.

A Legacy of Banners: Michigan's Early Days

Long before Michigan officially adopted its current "Seal on a Bedsheet" design, the lands now known as the Great Lakes State flew under a succession of different banners. From the early French Colonial Flags, such as the Fleur-de-lis, symbolizing exploration and settlement, to the British Colonial Flags, like the Union Jack, marking a shift in imperial control, Michigan's landscape has been a canvas for diverse and historically significant flags. These early banners represent foundational chapters in the region's rich and complex history, each telling a story of conquest, cultural exchange, and burgeoning identity.

More Than Just the Official Seal

However, Michigan's flag story extends far beyond its current official emblem and the colonial flags of its past. While the State Seal of Michigan itself is steeped in symbolism—featuring a bald eagle, a frontiersman, a moose, and the Latin motto 'Tuebor' ("I will defend")—it represents only one facet of the state's vexillological heritage. Beneath the surface, there lies a hidden history of unofficial flags: banners conceived by local militias, revolutionary groups, patriotic societies, and even individual communities that have captured moments, movements, and milestones in Michigan's past. These forgotten flags offer a unique lens through which to view the state's evolving identity, its struggles, triumphs, and the spirit of its people.

Over the course of this article, we will peel back the layers of history to reveal three fascinating and forgotten historical flags that each tell a unique story about Michigan's past, proving that the state's flag history is anything but a simple "seal on a bedsheet." Our journey into Michigan's forgotten flag history begins with a banner steeped in early military honor and state pride, the storied Brady Guard Flag.

Beyond the familiar state banner, Michigan’s past is rich with forgotten flags that tell vibrant stories of its birth and early identity. Our journey into these overlooked artifacts begins with a true symbol of early defiance.

Unveiling Michigan's First War Cry: The Brady Guard Flag

Michigan's history is often told through legislative acts and political maneuvering, but its spirit was also forged on battlefields, real and imagined. Among the earliest known unofficial flags associated specifically with Michigan is the magnificent Brady Guard Flag, a banner that speaks volumes about the young territory's assertiveness and its path to statehood.

The Genesis of a Banner: Amidst the Toledo War

This remarkable flag wasn't merely a decorative item; it was a rallying point, born from the intense border dispute known as the Toledo War (1835-1836). This largely bloodless, yet fiercely contested, conflict saw Michigan and Ohio locked in a bitter struggle over a strip of land that included the strategically vital port of Toledo. As tensions escalated, Detroit residents formed local militia units, ready to defend what they believed was Michigan territory. It was for one such unit, the elite Brady Guard of Detroit, that this flag was meticulously crafted, serving as their proud standard in the face of potential armed conflict.

A Tapestry of Defiance: The Flag's Distinct Design

The Brady Guard Flag is a testament to the era's martial spirit and Michigan's bold aspirations. Its distinct design elements were carefully chosen to convey strength, readiness, and a clear vision for the territory's future:

• General Hugh Brady's Portrait: Dominating the flag is a portrait of General Hugh Brady, a distinguished veteran of the War of 1812 and a respected military figure stationed in Detroit. His inclusion symbolized military leadership and the readiness of the Michigan forces.
• The Majestic Eagle: Perched prominently, a majestic eagle signifies national strength and vigilance, a common motif in American military banners, underlining the unit's commitment to defending the nascent nation's principles, even while disputing a border with a sister state.
• Prophetic 26 Stars: Perhaps the most intriguing element is the inclusion of 26 stars. At the time the flag was created, the United States had only 25 states. The Brady Guard, through this flag, prophetically declared Michigan's intention and expectation to become the 26th state, long before its official admission to the Union in 1837. It was a bold statement of intent, woven into the very fabric of their battle banner.

Below is a summary of the key symbols found on the Brady Guard Flag and their historical significance:

Championing Statehood: Mason's Connection

The creation and display of the Brady Guard Flag were inextricably linked to the fervor surrounding Michigan's push for statehood and its defense against Ohioan claims. Central to this period was Michigan's spirited young "Boy Governor," Stevens T. Mason. Mason was a fervent champion of Michigan's cause during the Toledo War, famously leading a contingent of Michigan militia to confront Ohioan forces. While not directly commissioning the flag, Mason's leadership and the atmosphere of defiant patriotism he fostered were precisely what inspired units like the Brady Guard to create and proudly display such a potent symbol. The flag, therefore, stands as a visual echo of Mason's unwavering dedication to Michigan's territorial integrity and its eventual place in the Union.

A Symbol Forged in Conflict

The Brady Guard Flag's significance extends far beyond its artistic merit. It represents Michigan's early assertiveness, a physical manifestation of its resolve to define its own borders and claim its rightful place among the states. It embodies the martial spirit that characterized Michigan's path to statehood, serving as a powerful reminder that the journey was not merely administrative but also involved a willingness to stand firm and fight for its identity. This flag, though unofficial, was Michigan's first battle banner, a testament to a young territory ready to declare its colors.

Yet, the Brady Guard Flag was not the only personal standard that played a significant, albeit often overlooked, role in Michigan's formative years.

While the Brady Guard Flag gallantly represented Michigan's burgeoning martial spirit and local pride, our journey into the state's vexillological past reveals another equally fascinating, albeit far less known, banner that flew during its formative years.

Michigan's Unseen Standard: The Stevens T. Mason Flag's Dual Identity

The annals of Michigan's early statehood are rich with tales of ambition, struggle, and the foundational figures who shaped its destiny. Among these, the story of the Stevens T. Mason Flag stands out as a unique and largely forgotten chapter, offering a glimpse into the personal symbolism intertwined with official state representation during the era of Michigan's first governor. This banner, unlike its more publicly celebrated counterparts, remained an artifact shrouded in obscurity, yet it provides invaluable insights into the period.

The Boy Governor's Personal Banner: A Distinctive Design

What truly sets the Stevens T. Mason Flag apart is its remarkable, two-sided design—a feature that makes it exceptional among early American state banners. Crafted with a blend of artistry and symbolism, each side presented a distinct facet of its purpose:

• Side One: The State Seal of Michigan: This side proudly displayed the nascent State Seal of Michigan. Adopted in 1835, the seal itself is a rich tapestry of symbols: an elk and a moose representing the state's fauna, a shield with a rising sun and a man standing on a peninsula, signifying Michigan's natural beauty and emerging prosperity, all encircled by the Latin mottoes "E Pluribus Unum," "Tuebor," and "Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice." This side clearly articulated the flag's connection to the official apparatus of the new state.
• Side Two: A Hand-Painted Portrait of Stevens T. Mason: In a highly unusual and deeply personal touch, the reverse side featured a meticulously hand-painted portrait of Stevens T. Mason himself. Depicting the 'Boy Governor' – so named for his youthful age when he assumed the territory's leadership and later became Michigan's first elected governor – this artistic rendition transformed the banner into a direct tribute to its namesake, blurring the lines between state emblem and personal standard.

Unraveling the Flag's Narrative: Purpose and Patronage

The unique design of the Stevens T. Mason Flag naturally leads to questions about its intended purpose. Was it a regimental color, a political campaign banner, or a personal standard for the governor?

Given its highly personalized nature, featuring Mason's portrait, it is highly improbable that it served as a traditional regimental color, which typically represent military units and bear symbols of collective identity rather than individual leaders. While it could have been used in political parades or rallies, its exquisite craftsmanship and the presence of the official state seal suggest a more dignified and perhaps semi-official role.

The prevailing narrative points to it being a personal standard for Governor Mason. In an era before standardized state flags, it was not uncommon for high-ranking officials to have personal banners symbolizing their office and, by extension, the entity they governed. This flag would have served as a powerful visual representation of Mason's leadership and his personal identification with the state he helped to create, likely displayed during official functions, ceremonies, or as a symbol of his gubernatorial presence.

A Flag of Contradictions: Comparison and Contrast

To truly appreciate the Stevens T. Mason Flag, it's helpful to compare it with other banners from Michigan's history:

• Vs. The Brady Guard Flag: The Brady Guard Flag, discussed previously, was a military and community standard, embodying collective pride and military readiness. It represented a specific local unit and its dedication. In contrast, the Stevens T. Mason Flag was profoundly individualistic, tied directly to the person of the governor, even while incorporating official state symbols. One was a symbol of local collective action, the other of central state leadership and the man at its helm.
• Vs. The Official State Flag: When Michigan eventually adopted its official state flag, it chose a design that was universally symbolic, devoid of specific individual portraits, and intended to represent all citizens and the collective identity of the state. The Mason Flag, with its blend of official state symbolism and a direct personal tribute, stands as a testament to an earlier, less formalized approach to state identity, where the leader and the state were often seen as inextricably linked. It represents a fascinating interim step in the evolution of Michigan's identity, between pure local banners and a universal state emblem.

Why Obscurity? The Fate of a Personal Standard

Despite its direct connection to Michigan's foundational leader, the Stevens T. Mason Flag remained an obscure artifact rather than becoming an official state banner. Several factors likely contributed to its fading from public consciousness:

• Highly Personalized Nature: The inclusion of Governor Mason's portrait, while unique, made the flag inherently tied to one individual. As Mason's tenure ended, the practicality and appropriateness of a state flag featuring a former governor would have diminished.
• Lack of Official Endorsement: Unlike symbols adopted through legislative action, this flag appears to have been a personal or semi-official standard, lacking the formal decree that would have solidified its status as a permanent state emblem.
• Evolution of State Identity: As Michigan matured, there was a natural move towards creating more generalized, unifying symbols that represented the collective populace rather than just a single leader. A flag with a portrait would eventually be seen as too individualistic for a permanent state standard.
• The Search for a Universal Symbol: The eventual adoption of the official state flag reflected a desire for a symbol that could universally represent all Michiganders across generations, a role the Mason Flag, for all its charm and historical significance, could not fulfill.

The Stevens T. Mason Flag, therefore, serves as a poignant reminder of a time when the identity of the state was deeply intertwined with its charismatic leaders, offering a unique window into the early days of Michigan's self-perception before the quest for a more universally recognized symbol took center stage. Yet, the story of Michigan's banners doesn't end with these historical curiosities; it continues into a modern quest for a new emblem that speaks to today's identity and aspirations.

While Michigan's past flags, such as the unique personal standard of Stevens T. Mason, offer fascinating glimpses into the state's early identity, the focus today often shifts from historical curiosities to the pressing question of what Michigan's flag should look like in the future.

Unfurling the Future: 'The Laurentian' and Michigan's Modern Identity Quest

The historical banners of Michigan, each with its unique story and context, serve as tangible links to the state's storied past. Yet, as the calendar pages turn, a new movement has gathered momentum, driven by a desire to look forward and craft a symbol that resonates more profoundly with modern Michiganders. This shift represents a transition from purely historical observation to an active pursuit of a contemporary visual identity, particularly concerning the official state flag.

From Historical Markers to Modern Symbols

For decades, the current Michigan state flag, adopted in 1911, has flown above government buildings and homes. However, a growing chorus of voices, from design enthusiasts to everyday citizens, argues for a change. This modern movement seeks to transition from flags that, while historically significant, may no longer effectively represent the state's diverse landscape, vibrant culture, and forward-looking spirit.

Introducing 'The Laurentian': A Popular Proposal

At the heart of this contemporary redesign effort stands 'The Laurentian' flag, a prominent and increasingly popular example of a proposed new Michigan banner. Designed by a collaborative team, 'The Laurentian' offers a stark contrast to the current flag's complexity, opting instead for elegant simplicity and profound symbolism.

The design breaks down as follows:

• Blue: Dominating the upper section, the rich blue symbolizes Michigan's most defining feature: the Great Lakes. It evokes the vastness of Huron, Michigan, Superior, Erie, and Ontario, whose waters shape the state's geography and history.
• Green: A horizontal stripe of green beneath the blue represents Michigan's abundant natural landscapes – its forests, fields, and parks, from the Upper Peninsula wilderness to the fertile farmlands of the Lower.
• White: A narrow, crisp white stripe separates the blue and green, signifying Michigan's harsh yet beautiful winters, marked by snow and ice. This color also suggests purity and the state's vital freshwater resources.
• Star: A single, prominent white star is often placed on the blue field, symbolizing Michigan as a unified state, a singular entity within the broader constellation of the United States. Its five points can also subtly echo the five Great Lakes.

The Science of Flags: Vexillology and Its Principles

The modern push for flag redesign is not merely an aesthetic preference; it is deeply informed by the principles of Vexillology, the scientific study of flags. Experts in this field advocate for designs that adhere to five core principles for creating truly effective and memorable flags:

1. Keep it Simple: The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.
2. Use Meaningful Symbolism: The flag's images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
3. Use 2-3 Basic Colors: Limit the palette to a few distinct colors that contrast well.
4. No Lettering or Seals: Avoid words, numbers, or complex seals, which become illegible from a distance.
5. Be Distinctive or Be Related: The flag should be unique and easily identifiable, or relate visually to other flags in a series (like a state in a nation).

The 'Seal on a Bedsheet' Dilemma

These vexillological principles highlight a major argument against Michigan's current flag: it is a classic example of a 'Seal on a Bedsheet' (SOAB). Many state flags, including Michigan's, feature the state seal prominently placed on a solid color background. While the Michigan seal itself is rich in detail and historical meaning, featuring the state motto "Tuebor" (I will defend), a rising sun, a moose, an elk, and a frontiersman, these elements become indistinguishable from a distance. The result is a flag that, to the untrained eye, looks remarkably similar to dozens of other state flags, leading to a lack of distinctiveness and recognition.

A State-Wide Conversation

Beyond 'The Laurentian', numerous other redesign proposals have emerged, each contributing to an ongoing public and legislative debate. Communities and individuals across the state are engaging in discussions about what best represents Michigan. Even smaller locales, like Mackinac Island, have long understood the power of a distinct local flag, proudly flying their unique and popular island banner, a testament to the idea that a flag can be a potent symbol of identity and pride. This grassroots interest underscores the depth of the desire for a flag that truly captures the spirit of the Wolverine State.

Comparing the Banners: Current vs. 'The Laurentian'

To further illustrate the arguments for change, let's compare the current Michigan State Flag with 'The Laurentian' based on the five principles of good flag design:

This comparison highlights why 'The Laurentian' and similar proposals are gaining traction. They aim to replace a flag that, by vexillological standards, falls short, with a design that could become a truly iconic and representative symbol for Michigan.

As the debate continues, the underlying question remains: what symbols, old and new, should we weave into Michigan's next great banner?

Having unfurled the modern aspirations embodied in 'The Laurentian' flag, it's now time to reflect on what these hidden banners collectively tell us about the spirit of Michigan.

More Than 'Tuebor': The Unfurling Tapestry of Michigan's Identity

Michigan's official flag, with its majestic elk and moose, its eagle, and the stern Latin motto 'Tuebor' (I will defend), presents a clear image of resilience and protection. Yet, this official emblem is but one thread in a much richer tapestry. Beneath the surface, the story of Michigan’s identity is woven with other banners—forgotten, personal, and aspirational—each offering a unique glimpse into the state's character and evolution.

A Trove of Secret Symbols: Recalling Michigan's Unofficial Banners

Our journey through Michigan's vexillological past has uncovered three distinct 'secret' flags, each resonating with a different facet of the state's storied history:

• The Martial Spirit: The Brady Guard Flag This flag, borne by the Detroit-based Brady Guard during the Toledo War, stands as a powerful testament to Michigan's fighting spirit. It wasn't just a banner; it was a rallying point, symbolizing the readiness of its citizens to defend their claims and territory with vigor and conviction. Its existence reminds us that Michigan's statehood was forged not just through diplomacy, but through a willingness to stand firm.
• The Personal Touch: The Stevens T. Mason Flag Less a symbol of state and more a personal standard, the flag associated with Michigan's boy governor, Stevens T. Mason, speaks to the individual and visionary leadership that shaped the nascent state. It evokes a period of rapid growth, ambition, and the entrepreneurial spirit of a young territory on the cusp of becoming a major player. It represents the personal commitment and forward-thinking attitude of those who laid the state's foundations.
• The Modern Quest: 'The Laurentian' Flag Leaping into the contemporary era, 'The Laurentian' flag embodies a modern quest for a symbol that encapsulates Michigan's unique geography, its rich natural resources, and its potential for innovation. It's a design that looks forward, seeking to visually represent the state's connection to the Great Lakes and its identity as part of the Laurentian Shield, reflecting a desire for a flag that resonates with its distinct environmental and economic landscape.

The Enduring Power of a State's Flag History

These official and unofficial banners are more than mere pieces of cloth; they are historical artifacts, each carrying narratives that contribute to Michigan's overarching identity. From the heated territorial disputes of the Toledo War to the contemporary design debates surrounding symbols like 'The Laurentian,' a state's flag history provides a rich tapestry that tells the story of its people, its struggles, its triumphs, and its aspirations. They illustrate how identity is not static but evolves, shaped by historical events, cultural shifts, and collective desires. These flags, whether formally adopted or merely proposed, serve as visual shorthand for complex chapters in Michigan's life, echoing the spirit of its inhabitants through different eras.

What These Flags Say About Michigan's Character

Reflecting on these forgotten and proposed historical flags reveals profound insights into Michigan's character:

• Its Fighting Spirit: The Brady Guard Flag unequivocally highlights a foundational readiness to defend what is rightfully Michigan's, a spirit of tenacity born from its earliest days.
• Its Unique Geography: 'The Laurentian' flag, in particular, emphasizes Michigan's deep connection to its environment—the Great Lakes, its natural resources, and its distinct place within the North American landscape. It speaks to an identity intrinsically linked to water and land.
• Its Forward-Looking Nature: From Mason's youthful ambition to the modern design discussions, there's a recurring theme of looking ahead, of striving for progress, and of seeking symbols that genuinely represent the state's future potential.

A Question for the Future

These flags collectively tell a story of a state that is both rooted in history and constantly evolving. They compel us to ask: Does the current flag, with its State Seal of Michigan and motto 'Tuebor' (I will defend), still capture the full spirit of the state, or is it time for a new symbol to fly? As we ponder these questions, the journey to define Michigan's visual identity continues.

Video: The 3 Secret Flags of Michigan's Past You Never Knew Existed

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From the spirited martial prowess embodied by the Brady Guard Flag and its prophetic vision of statehood during the contentious Toledo War, to the deeply personal and enigmatic symbolism of the Stevens T. Mason Flag, and finally, to the forward-looking vision of modern proposals like 'The Laurentian' flag – Michigan's flag history is far richer and more complex than a mere 'Seal on a Bedsheet' might suggest. This journey through official and unofficial flags reveals a vibrant tapestry woven from Michigan's fighting spirit, its unique Great Lakes geography, and its continuous evolution. These banners, whether forgotten artifacts or contemporary designs championed by experts in vexillology, underscore the profound connection between a state's identity and the symbols it chooses to fly. They prompt us to reflect on our past and envision our future. So, as we consider our state's legacy, we must ask: Does our current flag, with its enduring State Seal of Michigan and its motto 'Tuebor', still fully capture the diverse spirit of Michigan, or is it time for a new symbol to truly take flight?