The national flag of Anguilla was first
hoisted on May 30, 1990. It is a blue ensign with a Union Jack in the top
left corner and a shield on the right side which shows three orange
dolphins on a white background with a turquoise blue base. The design thus
incorporates affiliation to l3ritain and the Anguilla three dolphins flag
which was first used in the days of the revolution of Anguilla in 1967.
Before the revolution, the only flag flown in Anguilla was the Union Jack
of Great l3ritain. Ar the time of the revolution another flag was
introduced which figured two mermaids, one red and one blue, clinging ro a
shell. This flag was sent by a group of Anguillians living in 5an
Francisco, and was hoisted when the Statehood Flag of St. Kitts/Nevis/Anguilla
was torn down. It was never really accepted and was soon replaced by the
three dolphins flag, which immediately became popular and is still used,
though unofficially by many people today. The three dolphins are colored
orange to represent endurance, and they are in a circle for continuity.
The flag is on a white background denoting peace and tranquillity with a
turquoise blue base, depicting the sand and the sea. The flag originated
from a coat of arms first designed by Mrs Lydia Gumbs with assistance from
a New York artist.
The Union Jack and the three dolphins flags were used for many years but
it was strongly felt that Anguilla should have its own official flag. A
previous governor of Anguilla, Mr Brian Canty, suggested the new flag and
drew sketches which were sent ro London for approval by Her Majesty the
Queen. The coat of arms uses the same dolphin design that appears on the
flag and is edged with gold. The official seal is the shield with a double
circle around it containing the words "Anguilla: Strength and Endurance".
The Governor's official flag comprises the Union Jack and the Anguilla
coat of arms surrounded by a laurel wreath. It is flown at Government
House when the Governor is in residence and on any motor car or boat in
which he is making an official visit.
