Long associated with royalty in France, the fleur-de-lis is a stylized lily flower that has become an icon for Louisville, Kentucky. Seen all over the city, the fleurs-de-lis has become part of Louisville that enables a sense of identity for residents as well as a distinct icon that catches the attention of audiences of all types.
From the Symbol of the House of Bourbon to an Icon for Louisville
Translated as “flower of the lily,” the fleur de lis has been used to represent French royalty for centuries. Legends connect it to both Clovis and Charlemagne, while a French monarch in the twelfth century used the fleur-de-lis on his shield. It was later used on king’s coats of arms and in family insignias.
What became known as the “Bourbon Flag” prominently featured the fleur-de-lis which would end up having a direct connection to Louisville. The city was named after King Louis XVI of the House of Bourbon in 1778 in appreciation of France’s assistance in the Revolutionary War. Because of that connection, the fleur-de-lis was adopted as the city’s emblem.
Featured in everything from architectural embellishments to gift items to street signs and business logos, the fleur de lis can be seen all across the city. The icon has cultivated a sense of identity that is connected to the past but also spans modern the city. Even the seal of Louisville prominently features the fleurs-de-lis.
Establishments like Fleur de Lis on Main, one of Kentucky’s newest downtown residential and commercial developments, further showcase what kind of an impact it has had on the culture of the city. Products for sale at various establishments range from shirts to glasses to magnets highlight the economic impact it has cultivated.
While the fleur de lis is historically associated with an entirely different nation and other states and cities have similarly embraced it, Louisville has been able to use the icon to help define a distinct identity that is recognized across the region and beyond.
A Symbol of Hometown Pride
Recognized as a symbol of hometown pride among locals, visitors have come to see the fleur-de-lis as an icon that is specifically associated with Louisville. It proves that no matter how popular or pervasive a symbol might be, the opportunity to define it in a unique way that resonates with audiences exists. Effectively doing so can create countless opportunities to positively impact the culture and economy of an entire city.
