The beehive became the official state emblem on March 4, 1959 (Utah Code). H.B. 34 was sponsored by Representative J. Arthur Cooper (R-Garfield County) and Representative Melvin S. Dalton (D-Grand County). Utahns relate the beehive symbol to industry and the pioneer virtues of thrift and perseverance. The beehive or skep (wicker beehive) was chosen as the emblem for the provisional State of Deseret in 1848 and was maintained on the seal of the State of Utah when Utah became a state in 1896. 

The Beehive is omnipresent as a symbol in Utah history. It appeared as early as 1851 on the seal of the Territory of Utah. It was re-adopted on the state seal by the first state legislature in 1896. The origin of the Beehive as a symbol is associated with Mormon scripture. The symbol is prominently displayed in names and trademarks throughout the state. But not until 1959, did it become Utah’s official emblem. The state motto, “industry,” and the state emblem, the beehive, are interconnected. The beehive is known as a symbol of hard work and industry. In Utah, the beehive is used as a symbol in both religious and non-religious contexts.

Upon arriving in Utah, the pioneers found no other immigrants and had to rely mostly on themselves and their resourcefulness, while obtaining some supplies from Native tribes. This industrious spirit, which mirrors the symbolism of the beehive, led to a community that worked together and created a lasting and thriving industry.

The beehive is included in the redesign of the Utah state flag and the historic state flag.