The General Assembly adopted the current version of South Carolina's flag on January 28, 1861. This version added the Palmetto tree to the original design by Colonel William Moultrie in 1775 for use by South Carolina troops during the Revolutionary War.
What does everything mean on the State Flag?
- The blue color of the flag represents the color of the uniforms South Carolina troops used during the Revolutionary War.
- The crescent moon represents the silver emblem that was worn on the front of the soldier's caps.
- The Palmetto Tree symbolized Colonel Moultrie's heroic defense of the palmetto-log fort on Sullivan's Island against the attack of the British fleet.
Did you know that there are serious consequences for vandalizing the State Flag?
- Any person who mutilates, injures, or desecrates the State Flag, wherever displayed, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $100 or by imprisonment for not more than 30 days or both.
There is a pledge that goes with the State Flag!
- The official State Pledge to the Flag of South Carolina was adopted by Act Number 910 of 1966. Mrs. John R. Carson wrote the pledge in 1950, and it goes: "I salute the flag of South Carolina and pledge to the Palmetto State love, loyalty, and faith."