Shortly after 1776, states began to adopt their own official state seals, mottos, nicknames, and much more, which are all used to symbolize and represent the uniqueness of each state that resides within the nation.
So, what does Alaska’s state seal represent? The Alaska state seal was officially designed in 1910, which was before Alaska officially became a state when it was still a U.S. territory. The seal itself features many different things that all represent the the state in one way or another. The state seal of Alaska can be seen below in all its glory.
What Does The State Seal Of Alaska Mean?
Many things feature in Alaska’s state seal that have either historically or currently hold great significance within the state. The rays above the mountains represent the iconic Northern Lights (aurora borealis), which can only be seen from one U.S. state – Alaska!
The smelter that appears on the seal symbolizes mining, which has played a significant role in the history of the state. The train pays homage to Alaska’s rail transportation, and the ships represent the marine transportation.
Alaska has an abundance of rich, green forests, which is why the trees appear on the seal. Additionally, the farmer, horse, and three shocks of wheat pay respect to Alaskan agriculture over the years, benefiting the state’s economy tremendously. Fish and Seals can be found on the blue outer circle, and they symbolize the natural wildlife and seafood importance within the great state.
Most states will have their seals showcase a relevant story, that is indicative of the state and its history, and the Last Frontier State is certainly no different.
Official U.S. Seal
The Alaska State Seal is different to the official U.S. seal, and on June 20, 1782, the nation’s state seal was finally approved by the Continental Congress, after a committee was first created to design the seal on July 4, 1776.
Nearly six years and four designs later, the U.S. seal uses an eagle that holds a scroll in its beak with the E Pluribus Unum motto; in one claw is an olive branch, a symbol of peace, and the other claw holds thirteen arrows, a symbol of war. The seal is used on many official documents and is separate and distinct of the seals that each U.S. state have.
