Mayor Malik Evans has plans to change the city flag as the city will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the official city mark in 2026.
Current flag dates back more than a century
The City of Rochester’s current official flag was introduced in 1910 and adopted in 1934. The flag is decorated with the colors blue, white and yellow with the word Rochester spelled out. It also bears the coat of arms of the Nathanial Rochester family.
The new design proposal is to feature the modern city mark which is a five-pointed white flower that sits on a blue background.
City mark’s history rooted in lilacs and water wheels
The city mark was created in 1975 by City Graphic Designer Lee Green and was officially approved by Rochester City Council in 1976. The design pays homage to the water wheel and the five-petaled lilac.
“We are the only municipality with such an iconic and beloved trademark, and we are excited to celebrate its longevity and continued popularity,” Evans said. “As for the flag, few people are even aware that the official flag does not already bear the city mark. This change will be considered during December’s City Council meeting and will be a great way to kick off the mark’s 50th anniversary year.”
Events planned for 50th anniversary next year
In addition to the flag change, the city will hold several other events to celebrate the occasion. Events will begin next spring and will continue into the fall.
To learn more about the 50th anniversary and the planned events visit https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/bureau-communciations-and-special-events/celebrating-50-years-rochesters-city-mark.
We’re asking the city to provide a peek at the new design and will share it when we get it!
— Kerria Weaver works as the Government and You reporter for the Democrat and Chronicle, with a focus on how government actions affect communities and neighborhoods in Rochester and in Monroe County. Get in touch at kweaver@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Rochester plans to change its city flag. Which might it look like?
Reporting by Kerria Weaver, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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