American Furniture, Folk & Decorative Arts

Possibly the earliest extant State flag of New Hampshire, the color follows the description of the state seal published in 1785, "The Seal...contains a Field encompassed with Laurel; intended to show that the right of assuming Arms or Bearing was won in the Field-the Laurel is also Figurative of imploring the smiles of Heaven...On the Field is a Ship on the Stocks, with American Banners, and a Rising-Sun to denote New-Hampshire's being the Easternmost State. The Sun may also be considered as an Emblem of Prosperity in Business and the Ship as a Staple of this State, and Figurative of Defense and Protection..." The adoption of Federal militia law and practices of 1792 changed the design of Regimental colors to a blue ground rather than white, and use of the national symbol of the eagle and the New Hampshire state seal, adopted in 1788.