Until 1861 Virginia was a single colony and state. Virginia was named to honor Queen Elizabeth of England who was often referred to as the "Virgin Queen".

Adopted in 1929 the state flag has white field and is bordered in dark blue. Centered to the flag is the state seal encircled by rhododendrons. The seal contains the images of a farmer and a miner on either sides of a rock bearing the date June 20, 1863. This is the date that West Virginia split from Virginia to become an independent state. Two rifles topped by a liberty cap symbolize the fight for freedom. A red banner includes the state motto, "MONTANI SEMPER LIBERI" which is Latin for "Mountainiers Are Always Free". A large red ribbon is found above the seal and it reads, "STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA".