Maine State Seal

The Maine State Seal
The Great Seal of the State of Maine serves as a symbol of authenticity which verifies that government documents and papers of state are official and legal in the "Pine Tree State". The Maine state seal is also an emblem that is representative of the state's origins, history, character and ideals. The following motto, reflecting the spirit of the state, is also incorporated in the Maine state seal and is expressed in Latin as "Dirigo!" which means:

"I guide"

The Maine state seal identifies government buildings and officials and is a centerpiece for the Maine state flag. The symbolism, history and emblems of the Maine seal are described in this article with fast facts and information.

Maine State Seal

Facts on the Maine State Seal
The men who designed the Great State seals were educated in the classics and were knowledgeable of art history and symbolism of heraldry. Fast, fun facts about the history and design of the Maine State Seal:

Maine State Seal Facts
	Fact 1: Date of statehood March 15, 1820
	Fact 2: Colonel Isaac G. Reed of Waldoboro is credited with the description of the seal
	Fact 3: Design adopted June 1820
	Fact 4: Several variations were made to the design but in 1919 the legislature decided that the no further changes should be made

George Washington

Description, Symbols, Icons and Emblems of the Maine State Seal
The description and meaning of the symbols, icons and emblems are as follows:

	The bright yellow five-pointed Polar star displayed above the motto is a symbol of the unity of all things and the essence of the life force. The "Polar Star" is the brightest star in Ursa Minor and conveys the idea that just as a star guides a sailor home, the State of Maine guides its citizens toward the concept of patriotism, family and of home.
	The rays of the sun radiate from the star
	The figures of two men stand either side of the shield representing the sea and the land
	The first man depicts a farmer (husbandman) with his hand resting on a scythe and is a symbol of the importance of agriculture to the state.
	The small, versatile farms in the state operated a system of 'mixed husbandry' combining arable and livestock farming with a variety of different produce. This ensured economic viability regardless of the weather, market demand or failed crops
	The other man depicts a sailor who is leaning on an anchor and rope and is a symbol of the importance of waterpower, ship building and shipping to the state
	The main image in the shield is the White Pine, the Official State Tree and ideas conveying the landscape of Maine.
	The pine tree symbolizes the extensive pine forests that cover the state and provide the natural resources to make various products
	In heraldry a pine tree symbolizes eternal life
	Resting beneath the pine tree is a moose, the State animal of Maine
	The Maine seal is kept and used as required by the Constitution and laws of the state.

The Maine Seal of 1876
This is a flyer depicting the 1876 design of the Maine seal. The images surrounding the shield reflect the lifestyle and the importance of timber to the early settlers of Maine. The system of 'Mixed husbandry' inspired a distinctive form of architecture in which farm buildings such as the shed and barn were connected to the house and this is depicted in the picture of the house.

Maine State Seal for Kids

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	"I guide" motto
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	Official Nickname "Pine Tree State"
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Maine State Seal for Kids

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