Seal of West Virginia

The Seal of West Virginia is the official government emblem of the U.S. state of West Virginia. The seal was adopted in 1863, the same year West Virginia became a state.

Design[edit | edit source]

The seal features a large boulder in the center, inscribed with the date "June 20, 1863," the day West Virginia was admitted to the Union. In front of the boulder are two crossed rifles and a liberty cap, symbolizing the state's fight for liberty. On either side of the boulder stand two figures: a farmer, representing agriculture, and a miner, representing industry. The state motto, "Montani Semper Liberi" (Mountaineers are Always Free), appears on a scroll below the boulder.

Symbolism[edit | edit source]

The various elements of the seal represent the state's natural resources and the importance of both agriculture and industry to its economy. The crossed rifles and liberty cap signify the state's readiness to defend its freedom.

History[edit | edit source]

The seal was designed by Joseph H. Diss Debar, a French artist and immigrant who settled in West Virginia. The design was officially adopted by the state legislature in 1863.