Alabama State Flag

The Alabama state flag is a square-proportioned banner that shows a crimson diagonal cross on a white field. The design was fixed by the legislature in 1895, making it one of the older state flag designs still in use. The flag is flown over the state capitol in Montgomery and at schools, courthouses and government offices throughout Alabama [1][2]. This article describes the design, the rules written into the law, how the flag is displayed and how it fits among the state’s other emblems.

Description of the flag

The flag has a plain white background crossed from corner to corner by two crimson bars. This pattern is called a saltire in heraldry, and when used on a flag it is often called the cross of St. Andrew. The state law specifies the color as crimson and requires the bars to be at least six inches broad on a flag of standard size, with the bars extending from corner to corner. The design contains no seal, text or other decoration [2].

History of the design

The legislature adopted the flag design in 1895 after a proposal from a member of the state’s legislature. At the time, many states were creating official flags, often to replace informal banners. Alabama’s act is short, and it describes the flag in a single sentence. The simple pattern has proved durable, and it has been in continuous use for well over a century [1][2].

Rules for use

As with other state flags, there are customs about how the Alabama flag is displayed. Within the state, it may be flown alongside the national flag, with the United States flag in the position of honor. It is usually raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset, and it is flown at half-staff on days set by the governor. Worn or damaged flags are retired respectfully [2].

Flag and other emblems

The flag is one part of a family of emblems that includes the Great Seal, the coat of arms, and the motto. The seal and arms are described in Alabama Great Seal and Coat of Arms, and the other symbols appear in Alabama State Symbols. Unlike many state flags, Alabama’s uses no picture at all, which makes it easy to recognize and easy to reproduce [1][2].

Vexillology and design

Students of flags, known as vexillologists, often praise simple designs because they are easy to remember and to draw. A saltire design uses only two colors and has no small details, which makes it legible from a distance. The Alabama flag illustrates this principle. Teachers sometimes use it in classroom exercises on symmetry and color, and the pattern is easy to build as a paper model or a quilt block [2].

Where to see the flag

Visitors can see the flag at the capitol in Montgomery, at state parks and in classrooms. Official reproductions are held by the state archives. Readers who want a broader overview of the state, including its geography and history, can continue to the main Alabama profile [1].

FAQs

What is the Alabama flag? A crimson diagonal cross on a white field.

When was the Alabama flag adopted? In 1895.

How wide are the crimson bars? At least six inches on a flag of standard size.

Does the flag include a seal? No. The design has no seal, text or picture.

Who sets the rules for the flag? The Alabama Legislature, through state law.

Sources

1. Encyclopedia of Alabama: State of Alabama
2. Alabama Department of Archives and History: Alabama Emblems, Symbols and Honors

Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 10, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue