Ever notice a face on a state flag and wonder who it is? If you’ve asked “who is the only president to be featured on a state flag?” the short answer is George Washington — his portrait appears on the Washington state flag.
The story behind the Washington state flag
Washington’s flag is distinctive: a deep green field with the state seal centered in gold and white. The seal uses a portrait of George Washington derived from the Gilbert Stuart likeness familiar from early American portraiture and currency. That portrait is why Washington is the only U.S. president depicted on any state flag.
The flag’s green field is unique among U.S. state flags; no other state uses green as the primary background color.
The portrait is a formalized rendition rather than a photograph, reinforcing the state’s connection to its namesake.
Ceremonial versions sometimes have a gold fringe; the flat, official design does not include fringe.
How Washington ended up with a president on its flag
The current design was adopted by the state in the early 1920s to create a clear, dignified emblem for Washington. Placing George Washington’s portrait at the center linked the state’s identity to its namesake and produced an instantly recognizable symbol. The design has remained popular among residents and vexillology fans for its simplicity and historical resonance.
Did you know?
Washington is the only U.S. state flag to feature an actual person, and that person is a U.S. president.
Cultural notes and curiosities
Symbolism and identity The portrait ties the state to the founding era while keeping the design straightforward and dignified.
Design debates Some critics call the flag literal or uncreative; supporters praise its recognizability and historical gravity.
Comparisons with other state flags Most states use seals, stars, or nature motifs; none other than Washington include a president’s likeness.
Public use and display You’ll see the flag at government buildings, public events, and on merchandise that uses its green-and-gold palette.
Mini Q&A
Q: Is George Washington the only person shown on a state flag?
A: He is the only U.S. president shown; a few flags include allegorical or historical figures, but not other presidents.
Q: Was the portrait taken from a painting?
A: Yes — it’s based on the well-known Gilbert Stuart portrait of Washington.
Q: When was the flag adopted?
A: The state adopted the current design in the early 1920s.
Personal note
I like this fact because it’s a small, elegant example of how symbols carry meaning. The Washington flag feels modest but deliberate — one portrait anchors an entire state identity, and that simplicity is oddly powerful.
George Washington being the only president on a state flag makes for a perfect trivia drop at parties. What’s the most memorable state symbol you’ve seen?