A Vision for a City of Lynden Flag: Honoring History with Simplicity

By Fernando Gonzalez

Lynden, WA – What would a flag for the City of Lynden look like? One idea envisions a simple yet meaningful design that pays tribute to the town’s heritage while maintaining a clean and timeless aesthetic.

At the heart of this concept is Phoebe Judson, the “Mother of Lynden,” whose pioneering spirit shaped the town’s early days. Judson, who also played a pivotal role in founding what would become Western Washington University, represents the resilience and legacy of Lynden’s history.

The flag features a light blue background, symbolizing the bright summer skies that define the region and the Nooksack River, which has long been central to the community’s identity. Two stars are positioned to represent the two main high schools that have shaped the educational landscape of the city.

While the idea initially included elements like mountains, cows, and the river, simplicity ultimately won out. A clean, symbolic design allows the focus to remain on what truly represents Lynden without unnecessary clutter.

A next step in exploring this idea is to check with the Lynden Museum to determine whether historical images of Phoebe Judson are in the public domain. With no tax dollars needed for its creation, this flag concept is purely a community-driven vision—one that could spark conversation about what a Lynden flag might look like if ever officially adopted.

For now, it remains just that—an idea—but one that invites Lynden residents to reflect on their city’s identity and how best to represent it.