Oregon
Is it time to change up the Oregon state flag?
Oregon is the only state flag in the U.S. to feature different designs on each side. The reverse side features a golden beaver.
Courtesy public domain
Oregon has had the same blue and gold state flag for nearly 100 years. The state’s name, coat of arms and year of statehood are on one side, but it’s the other side that features the golden beaver that makes it unique — it’s the only state flag with two sides and one of the only double-sided flags in the world.
Oregon is the only one of the nation’s states to have a flag feature different images on both sides.
Courtesy public domain
The Redmond Spokesman recently ran an editorial pointing out that some of the images that make up the state seal on the flag might be due for a makeover. It also questioned the need for the words “State of Oregon,” likening that choice to having a bumper sticker with the word “car” on it.
We discuss the pros and cons of the Oregon flag with the author, managing editor of the Redmond Spokesman, Tim Trainor, and one of the current state flag’s most ardent supporters, retired Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney.
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