Wisconsin Symbols

Wisconsin, often called The Badger State, became a state in 1848, and over the years the State Legislature adopted many state symbols, including several prominent and interesting ones from the St. Croix Valley. The official state motto, "Forward," reflecting Wisconsin's continuous drive to be a national leader, was adopted in 1851 as an element of the state's official coat of arms and seal. The state slogan, "America's Dairyland," reflects Wisconsin's place as one of the nation's leading dairy producers, especially famous for its cheese. The state song, "On Wisconsin!," includes lyrics praising the Badger State, hailing its loyal sons and daughters, invoking "Forward" as the motto, and calling Wisconsin to noble duty and to battle for the right. Other state symbols listed include the state flag, coat of arms, American Water Spaniel as state dog, cranberry as state fruit, tartan, galena as state mineral, kringle as state pastry, robin as state bird, wood violet as state flower, and polka as state dance.

Houlton, Wisconsin · United States