city of madison flag

The Story Behind the City of Madison Flag

The flag of Madison, Wisconsin, features a white cross on a blue background, with a yellow sun symbol at the center. Adopted in 1962, it represents the city’s location on an isthmus between two lakes and its identity as the “City of Four Lakes”. The design has undergone some modifications since its initial adoption.

Design and Symbolism

The Madison city flag is characterized by a prominent white Latin cross dividing the field into four blue quarters. This is a common misconception that has led many to think that the flag has Christian symbolism, which the flag doesn’t have any. In the very center is a golden yellow sun disk. The blue symbolizes the four lakes surrounding Madison: Lake Mendota, Lake Monona, Lake Waubesa, and Lake Kegonsa. The white cross represents the isthmus on which downtown Madison is located, connecting the city.

History of the Madison City Flag

In 1961, the Madison Chamber of Commerce launched a contest to design a city flag. The winning design was submitted by Mr. Richard Greiber, and it was officially adopted by the city in 1962. The original design underwent some slight modifications, but the core elements remained the same.

Controversy and Modern Interpretations

The cross-like design has occasionally sparked debate due to its perceived religious symbolism. However, city officials and historians have consistently clarified that the design is intended to represent the geographical layout of the city and its isthmus location. The city flag does not have any religious association. Many Madisonians embrace the flag as a symbol of their city’s unique geography and history.

Flag Protocol and Usage

The City of Madison flag is typically flown at official city buildings and events. It can also be displayed by private citizens and businesses to show civic pride. It is generally flown according to standard flag etiquette guidelines.

More Information

You can find more details about the Madison flag on Wikipedia’s entry on the Flag of Madison, Wisconsin.

FAQs About the Madison City Flag

Why does the Madison flag have a cross?

The “cross” on the Madison flag is intended to represent the isthmus on which the city is located, not a religious symbol.

What do the colors of the Madison flag mean?

The blue represents the four lakes surrounding Madison, and the white represents the isthmus. The yellow sun symbolizes the city’s warmth and prosperity.

Who designed the Madison city flag?

The Madison city flag was designed by Mr. Richard Greiber in 1961.

When was the Madison flag adopted?

The Madison flag was officially adopted by the city in 1962.

Has the Madison flag design changed over time?

Yes, the original design has undergone some slight modifications, but the core elements have remained the same.

Summary

The City of Madison flag is a unique emblem that represents the city’s geographical location on an isthmus between four lakes. While sometimes misinterpreted for its cross-like design, it is intended to symbolize the city’s unique landscape and identity. The flag serves as a symbol of civic pride and is flown at official city buildings and events.