FEBRUARY 28, 2026 — In Ohio, the Muskingum County Commissioners have initiated a public contest to redesign the official county flag, reports WHIZ Fox 5.
They are aiming to debut a new emblem during the America 250 celebrations.
The decision to seek a fresh design follows a proposal submitted in January by Camren Zimmerman, a local resident and digital media graduate, who presented two concepts intended to modernize the county’s visual identity.
In his proposed designs, Zimmerman incorporated grey to represent the legacy of author Zane Grey and a black “Y” to signify Zanesville’s distinctive Y-Bridge. The inclusion of blue serves as a tribute to Zane State College, while a red triangle acknowledges Ohio’s state colours.
To ground the design in the county’s industrial and maritime history, he integrated a black circle to represent the coal mining industry and a white triangle intended to evoke the Lorena steamboat.
The current flag, which has served as the official banner since its adoption in 2002, was designed by artist Roger Penos in collaboration with residents of the Muskingum County Home, according to the county website.
The existing maroon field features seven white symbols, including a steamboat, a barn, and references to the Underground Railroad, framed by a green and white border. While this design was intended to be a comprehensive historical record, incorporating the county’s founding date of March 1, 1804, the commissioners are now advocating for a shift toward simplicity.
Commissioner Melissa Bell stated that the board is seeking “very simple designs” and has requested that participants limit their submissions to between two and four colours.
“We really want people to use their imagination and try to think about what most accurately reflects the heritage and history of Muskingum County,” Bell said.
Submissions are being accepted via email and physical mail until May 1, 2026. The commissioners intend to announce a winner on Flag Day, with the successful design subsequently undergoing the formal registration process required for recognition by the State of Ohio.
Image: Muskingum County, Ohio, WHIZ Fox 5
