What is up with the New Bern City Flag?
**The History of the New Bern, NC City Flag: A Symbol of Friendship and Heritage**
**A Shared Heritage with Bern, Switzerland**
The New Bern city flag is deeply inspired by the Swiss city of Bern, known for its iconic bear imagery. The resemblance is no coincidence. In fact, the original flag of New Bern was a gift from the residents of Bern in 1896, symbolizing the longstanding bond and friendship between the two cities. The flag’s design honors this special relationship and the historical ties connecting them.
**The Bear Motif: A Medieval Symbol of Strength and Loyalty**
The central feature of the flag is the bear—an emblem that dates back to the Middle Ages. In Bern, the bear has been a symbol of the city for centuries, appearing on buildings, vehicles, uniforms, and more. For New Bern, the bear represents strength, resilience, and the city’s roots.
**The Original Gift and Its Significance**
The original flag was a heartfelt gift from the residents of Bern, and today it is displayed in the courtroom of New Bern’s City Hall as a treasured piece of history. It symbolizes the friendship and shared heritage that continues to define the relationship between the two cities.
**A Modern Reflection of the Tradition**
Over the years, there has been some debate about the bear’s depiction, particularly regarding gender representation. In New Bern, a “politically correct” version of the bear is also used, often by local high school teams and groups. Remarkably, the same debate occurred in Bern, Switzerland, a few years ago. The city decided to stick with the “Papa Bear,” affirming the identity of the male bear, with one official from Bern saying, “It is a Papa Bear and always will be a Papa Bear.” However, in New Bern, the bear is gender nuetral.
**The Badge of Friendship**
In the end, the flag of Bern, Switzerland, is essentially the same as the flag of New Bern, North Carolina—an emblem of friendship, history, and shared values that span across continents. It’s a symbol that reminds residents of their city’s deep-rooted connection with Bern and the enduring power of cultural ties.
**Conclusion**
The New Bern city flag is more than just a symbol; it’s a story of international friendship, history, and identity. With its iconic bear motif and Swiss origins, the flag reflects a unique bond that has endured for over a century—connecting two cities through history, symbolism, and mutual respect. Whether flying in downtown New Bern or standing in the city hall, it serves as a proud reminder of the enduring friendship between New Bern and Bern, Switzerland.