We write about serious topics all the time here, which we should. But sometimes its nice to have some fun. This one will be fun. One of the things that stands out to me as I read about upcoming events and programs going on across the nation are graphics and illustrations. Logos. There’s nothing like a great logo. It can capture the spirit of the team/place/group. One of my favorite logos is this one (I sure hope Rob Orrison is reading):
The Bicentennial produced what I think is a great, classy looking logo:
By comparison, the official 250 logo for the nation’s commission is bland and boring to me:
https://america250.org
As we’ve entered the 250th commemoration, I’ve noticed the various logos for state 250 commissions. Some I really like, some are o.k., and some are just plain . . . boring. I’ll run down my opinion on the various state 250th logos. There are many state commissions, so to keep this manageable I’ll just focus on those of the original thirteen states. And I’ll go through them in alphabetical order so as to avoid any sense of favoritism.
Connecticut
I’ll just say it: it’s boring. I love the Nutmeg State and it has some great historic sites. But the logo falls flat. Just the state name, with the ‘C’ in blue to set it off.
https://ct250.org
Delaware
Good work, First State. It’s short, sweet, colorful, patriotic, and I like the state outline.
https://delaware250.org
Georgia
It’s o.k. Good colors, but kind of bland to me.
https://exploregeorgia.org/ga250
Maryland
Not a fan. Neither exciting or interesting. Too many letters, not enough graphics.
https://mdtwofifty.maryland.gov
Massachusetts
It’s ok. The state abbreviation and ‘250’ look very 70s to me. I honestly expected more from a state with such rich Revolutionary history.
https://massachusetts250.org/healey-unveils-massachusetts-250-initiative-to-celebrate-anniversary-of-independence
New Hampshire
Come on, Granite State! New Hampshire currently has no state 250th Commission. Let’s hope the state addresses that soon.
New Jersey
The Garden State’s logo features an illustration representing the state’s role as the Crossroads of the Revolution. I’m not crazy about the colors, though.
https://www.revnj.org
New York
Definitely a winner. It has clear lettering, patriotic colors, and the image of the flag on the state outline.
https://www.nysm.nysed.gov/revolutionaryny250
North Carolina
Not crazy about it. Sorry, Tarheel State. The letters are too small and thin, and there are no graphics.
https://www.america250.nc.gov
Pennsylvania
The Keystone State has used its state abbreviation with the numbers ‘250.’ It reminds me of money. Simple, but it works. I do wish it had more to it, though.
https://www.america250pa.org
Rhode Island
Spot on. Nice logo, with the anchor, a symbol of the state, and abbreviation and ‘250.’ It’s easy to read, sharp, and captures the state’s history.
https://rhodeisland250.org
South Carolina
I think the Palmetto State could’ve done better. It’s not awful, but not inspiring either. The letters and wording could really use an image or graphic to go with them. How about a palmetto?
https://southcarolina250.co
Virginia
I like the use of red, white, and blue in the Old Domion’s logo, as well as the thick font for the letters and numbers. It’s a good one. I wish it was a bit more visual, with maybe a state outline or something, but overall, I like it.
https://va250.org
What do you think? What do you like best? Do you live in another state with a great logo? Share it.
This is not in any way meant to criticize any state’s commemorative efforts. Every state is doing great programming. Check out their websites and support their programs. And be sure to check out the national 250 website:
https://america250.org
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