Delaware State Symbols

Nicknames - "First State", on December 7, 1787, Delaware became the first state to ratify the new United States Constitution. It became official in 2002 after efforts by a first grade class.

Also, "Diamond State" -Thomas Jeferson described our state as a "jewel" among states, this due to our location in the east and our proximity to waterways.

Motto - "Liberty and Independence"

State Colors: Colonial blue and buff

Song - "Our Delaware"

Bird - Blue Hen Chicken

State Bug- Lady Bug, Declared by the legislature in 1974, also the result of lobbying by a local 2nd grade class!

Flower - Peach Blossom

State Fish: Weakfish

Tree - American Holly

State Beverage: Milk

Gem-Stone - Sillimanite

State Herb: Sweet Golden Rod

State Fossil: Belemnite

State Butterfly: Tiger Swallowtail

State Marine Animal: Horseshoe Crab

Delaware State Facts

Capital - Dover

Entered Union - Dec. 07, 1787 (1st to do so)

State Population - (46th in the nation)

Largest City - Wilmington

Elevation: Highest -- 447.85 ft. above sea level near Ebright Road in New Castle County. Lowest -- coastal sea level.

Population: The 2000 Population Estimate is 783,600, which ranks us 45th nationwide.