Pioneer Michigan

While he was non-acting, the state’s second territorial governor (Lewis Cass) is the man responsible for the Great Seal. The symbol would become Michigan’s official seal after it was introduced to the Constitutional Convention, and then, adopted in 1835. The seal has been modified throughout the years. However, it has been almost a century since the seal was last altered.The seal’s design features several references to the nation. The most obvious nod to America is the Eagle (the nation’s bird). Michigan wanted the jurisdiction and superior authority of the United States to shine in their seal; thus the eagle was the perfect symbol.In-fact, America’s origins are also represented in the symbol. The eagle is carrying a branch with thirteen olives, as well as three arrows. The thirteen olives represent the first states and America striving for peace, while the arrows are a symbol of a nation on the defense; a country prepared to fight for its beliefs. Finally, the national motto, “From many, one” is featured on the seal in its original language “E Pluribus Unum.”Speaking of mottos, Michigan’s is included in the seal, too; “Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice,” which is translated to say “if you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.” Naturally the state incorporated several features to reference Michigan pride. A moose and an elk, animals which represent the state, hold the shield which declares “tuebor;” a word which means “I will defend.”Similar to the American eagle, the man within the shield represents the states focus on peace and defense. The figure’s raised hand represents peace, while the hand armed with a gun symbolizes the state’s readiness to defend.