wyoming

Wyoming gained statehood in 1890, and waited for its second Legislature to approve an official seal three years later. The most prominent feature of Wyoming’s seal is the central figure of a woman standing before a banner which reads “Equal Rights”. Wyoming bears the honorable distinction of being at the forefront of states advocating equal rights for men and women, well before the turn of the century. On either side of the female figure are two pillars, each with scrolls that proclaim Wyoming’s major economic strengths: oil, mines, livestock, and grain. On each pillar are burning lamps, symbolizing the Light of Knowledge. In the foreground, a striped shield and star, topped by an eagle, represent Wyoming’s sovereignty and dedication to the Union. The number 44 identifies Wyoming as the 44th state to enter the Union. On either side of the shield are the dates 1869 and 1890, which represent, respectively, the date that Wyoming organized as a Territory, and the date that Wyoming gained statehood. Flanking the pillars are figures representing the livestock and mining industries. The outer circle bears the words “Great Seal of the State of Wyoming”.