Island Heritage - National Emblems of Barbados
The National Flag
The Barbados national flag was designed by Grantley W. Prescod. It is divided into three equal vertical panels. The two outer panels are untramarine, while the centre is gold. A black broken trident rests in the centre of the flag. The broken trident signifies Barbados' break away from Britian, while the ultramarine and gold represent the sky sea and sand, of which this island is so fondly known.
Things to remember regarding the National Flag:
- The National Flag must be flown from the Public Buildings in National Heroes Square, from 6:00am to 6:00pm, every day.
- The flag should not be flown after 6pm, except for those indoors.
- It must also be flown from government building and schools while in session.
- During mourning periods, the flag is flown at half-mast, a decision which rests with the Cabinet.
- When on display, the flag must be flown properly and must not touch anything around it - buildings, furniture, floors, etc.
- The only acceptable time for the flag to be flown with in inverted trident is as a sign of distress.
The National Pledge
written by Mr. Lester Vaughn
I pledge allegiance to my country Barbados and to my flag,
To uphold and defend their honour,
And by my living do credit
To my nation where ever I go.
Lyrics by Irving Burgie
Composed by C. Van Roland EdwardsIn plenty and in time of need
When this fair land was young
Our brave forefathers sowed the seed
From which our pride is sprung
A pride that makes no wanton boast
Of what it has withstood
That binds our hearts from coast to coast
The pride of nationhood
Chorus
We loyal sons and daughters all
Do hereby make it known
These fields and hills beyond recall
Are now our very own
We write our names on history's page
With expectations great
Strict guardians of our heritage
Firm craftsmen of our fate
The Lord has been the people's guide
For past three hundred years
With him still on the people's side
We have no doubts or fears
Upward and onward we shall go
Inspired, exulting, free
And greater will our nation grow
In strength and unity
The Motto
Pride and Industry
The Coat of Arms
The National Flower of Barbados
Dwarf Poinciana or Flower Fence, but commonly known as the Pride of Barbados flower, is Barbados' national flower. This flower blooms year round and while it comes in a variety of colours, the red with yellow petals is considered to be the national flower. Other colours common in Barbados are yellow, orange and pink.
RELATED ARTICLES
Barbados Independence
Barbados History
Barbados National Heroes
November Files - Independence Arch
Current Edition of Caribbean Dreams Magazine
Article © Caribbean Dreams Magazine
Photo of the Pride of Barbados flower originally from barbados.org