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Emblems of the Commonwealth of Virginia

In addition to Virginia’s rich history, Virginia has many Official State symbols that represent the cultural heritage & natural treasures of the Commonwealth. Some symbols have been adopted after a concerted effort by citizens to have a significant item recognized for its importance to the state. To that end, citizens, organizations, or school children often research a particular symbol and make a request for a bill, which may eventually be signed into law. The following are the symbols displayed in the order they were adopted. This information can also be downloaded as a publication.

Seal - Great Seal of the Commonwealth The lesser seal of the Commonwealth is the official seal of Virginia The motto was adopted in 1776, with the words symbolizing victory over tyranny. Flower and Tree - Dogwood the flowering dogwood is also known as the floral emblem of the Commonwealth of Virginia, acting as both the state’s official tree and official flower. Dog - American Foxhound State Bird - Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) Virginia Dog – American Foxhound Oyster - The state shell Adopted in 1974. Oyster - The state shell Adopted in 1974. The State Boat - Chesapeake Bay Deadrise The American folk dance as the State Dance Brook Trout Chesapecten jeffersonius is the State Fossil, a scallop Founding fleet that brought the first permanent English settlers to Jamestown in 1607, and which are exhibited at the Jamestown Settlement in Williamsburg. State Bat –– Virginia Big-eared bat (Corynorhinos townsendii virginianus) Virginia designated striped bass as the official state saltwater fish in 2011. Virginia designated striped bass as the official state saltwater fish in 2011. State snake – Eastern Garter Snake State Spirit – George Washington’s rye whiskey produced at Mount Vernon, Virginia. State Salamander State Feshwater fish - Brook Trout State Pony - Chincoteague Pony Pollinator — European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) - Adopted 2024 - HB517

Historical Virginia Facts

Virginia was founded at Jamestown on May 13, 1607, and was named after Queen Elizabeth I of England (the Virgin Queen).

Virginia was called “The Old Dominion” by King Charles II of England because of the colony’s loyalty to the crown.

The title, “Commonwealth of Virginia” was adopted June 29, 1776, to signify the “common good” of the people of Virginia.

All portraiture above created by Michael and Karri Mohr courtesy of the House of Delegates Clerk's Office. © 2024