This is a proposed design for the Flag of Chagrin Falls.

What Makes a Good Flag?

Vexillology is the study of the history, symbolism, and usage of flags. According to the North American Vexillological Association there are five basic principles for good flag design:

  1. Keep It Simple
    The flag should be so simple that a child can draw it from memory.
  2. Use Meaningful Symbolism
    The flag’s images, colors, or patterns should relate to what it symbolizes.
  3. Use Two or Three Basic Colors
    Limit the number of colors on the flag to three which contrast well and come from the standard color set.
  4. No Lettering or Seals
    Never use writing of any kind or an organization’s seal.
  5. Be Distinctive or Be Related
    Avoid duplicating other flags, but use similarities to show connections.

The Proposed Flag Design

The swallowtail shape of the flag – called the Ohio Burgee – pays homage to the 1901 state flag designed by Cleveland architect John Eisenmann. A single, wavy blue stripe runs horizontally across the center of the field, representing the Chagrin River that bisects the village. The blue stripe is bordered by narrower, white stripes symbolize the foaming water of the river’s rapids and falls. In tribute to Chagrin Fall’s history as a mill town, a stylized millstone made of eight gray wedge shapes is centered vertically on the flag’s hoist.

Colors

Pantone Reflex Blue
C: 100 M: 83 Y: 0 K: 46
R: 0 G:23 B:137
H: 230 S: 100 L: 27
Hex Code: #001789
Pantone Process Blue
C: 100 M: 35 Y: 0 K: 20
R: 0 G:31 B:203
H: 201 S: 100 L: 40
Hex Code: #0083CB
Pantone Cool Gray 8
C: 4 M: 2 Y: 0 K: 44
R: 137 G:139 B:142
H: 216 S: 2 L: 55
Hex Code: #898B8E
Pantone White
C: 0 M: 0 Y: 0 K: 0
R: 255 G:255 B:255
H: 0 S: 0 L: 100
Hex Code: #FFFFFF

Reflex Blue is a striking, deep, and true blue. It was invented in the 1800s by the print and ink company Ault & Wiborg in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Water Blue is a bright, welcoming blue reminiscent of the clean, clear waters that powered early industry in Chagrin Falls and continues to attract visitors to our town.

Stone Gray is representative of the stone harvested in local quarries and used in construction and industry.

Construction

Deep Blue Nylon Process Blue Nylon Charcoal Nylon Optic White Nylon

Animation