State Facts:
Statehood: December 7, 1787
Capital: Dover
Nickname: The First State, Diamond State, Blue Hen State,
or Small Wonder
Motto: Liberty and Independence
The state seal was first adopted on January 17,
1777, and contains the coat of arms. It also bears the inscription
around it "Great Seal of the State of Delaware" and
the dates 1704, 1776 and 1787. Descriptions of the contents
of the seal are as follows:
The Wheat Sheaf -- was adapted from the Sussex County seal
and signifies the agricultural vitality of Delaware.
The Ship -- is a symbol of New Castle County's ship building
industry and Delaware's extensive coastal commerce.
The Corn -- is taken from the Kent County seal and also symbolizes
the agricultural basis of Delaware's economy.
The Farmer -- with the hoe represents the central role of
farming to the state.
The Militiaman -- with his musket recognizes the crucial role
of the citizen-soldier to the maintenance of American liberties.
The Ox -- represents the importance of animal husbandry to
the state economy.
The Water -- (above the Ox) stands for the Delaware River,
the main stay of the state's commerce and transportation.
State Bird: Blue Hen
State Flower: Peach Blossom
