Alaska State Motto

"North to the Future"

Adopted in 1967.

Language: English

Focus: Geographical

See Alaska State Flag

In 1963, the Alaska Centennial Commission announced a competition to determine a distinctive centennial motto and emblem for Alaska. "North to the Future," adopted during Alaska's Purchase Centennial, celebrating its purchase from Russia by the United States, and was created by veteran newsman Richard Peter, the motto is meant to represent Alaska as a country of promise, linking its geographic position with the bright future prospects of the northernmost state.. According to Peter, the motto "...is a reminder that beyond the horizon of urban clutter there is a Great Land beneath our flag that can provide a new tomorrow for this century's 'huddled masses yearning to be free."

The Alaska Legislature officially adopted North to the Future as the official motto of Alaska in 1967, during Alaska's Purchase Centennial celebration.

Alaska State Motto
"North to the Future"

There are four states with mottos that focus on geography:

1. Alaska: "North to the Future"
2. Minnesota: "L'Etoile du Nord" (Star of the North),
3. Indiana: "The Crossroads of America"
4. Michigan: "Si Quaeris Peninsulam Amoenam Circumspice" (If You Seek a Pleasant Peninsula, Look About You)

The motto represents a forward-looking optimism, a state of promise. Richard Peter is quoted that the motto

"...is a reminder that beyond the horizon of urban clutter there is a Great Land beneath our flag that can provide a new tomorrow for this century's 'huddled masses yearning to be free.' "

Flag

The blue field is for the sky and the forget-me-not, the state flower. The North Star is for the future of the state of Alaska, the most northerly of the Union. The dipper is for the Great Bear, symbolizing strength

Alaska Law

The law designating the official Alaska state motto is found in the Alaska Statutes 2004, Title 44, Chapter 44.09, Section 44.09.045.

Title 44. STATE GOVERNMENT.
Chapter 44.09. STATE SEAL, FLAG, AND EMBLEMS.
SECTION
Sec. 44.09.045. State motto. The official motto of the State of Alaska is: North to the Future.