March 22, 1913
Governor Elliot Major signs legislation officially recognizing the state flag, created by Marie Watkins Oliver, who became known as “Missouri’s Betsy Ross.” Marie came from an influential family in Ray County, married a soon-to-be senator, and moved to Cape Girardeau. While her husband practiced law, Marie was put in charge of the flag design in 1908.
(Read more about Missouri’s state flag and its connection to grizzly bears which, by the way, are not native to Missouri.)
Based upon content from the book Missouri 365: This Day in Missouri History by John W. Brown, broadcaster and Missouri historian. Get your copy at Reedy Press.
Image—Adobe Stock photos
Related Posts
March 14, 1835
On this date in Missouri history, legislators pass a bill which reads, “all free persons of color had to apply for a freedom license.” That law meant that not only did African Americans have to apply for freedom, but they also had to prove they met the requirements to be free, which was nearly impossible.
March 13, 1964
On this date in history: The Beatles made their first concert appearance in St. Louis. They appeared in Kansas City on September 17.
March 22, 1913
Missouri's state flag was adopted. Marie Elizabeth Watkins Oliver of Cape Girardeau's D.A.R. designed the flag.