“Industry” became the State Motto on March 4, 1959 when Governor George D. Clyde signed H.B. 35 into law. The single word, “Industry,” reflects Utah’s commitment to hard work and the pioneering spirit. “Industry” has been a vital part of Utah’s state history since the pioneer days.

Utah officially adopted its motto, “Industry” and emblem, the beehive. “Industry” is closely associated with the beehive symbol, and these symbols, which are connected to the state’s history, continue to represent the collaborative and industrious spirit of Utahns today. 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.

The early pioneers had few material resources at their disposal and therefore had to rely on their own “Industry” to survive. The pioneer values of thrift and perseverance are embodied in “Industry.” The word “Industry” appears on both the State Seal and the Historic State Flag.

Although “Industry” was not officially made Utah’s motto until 1959, it has been the “unofficial” motto for numerous years. In the first session of the state legislature (1896), the state seal was fully described and the word “Industry” was prominently displayed thereon.

When the pioneers first arrived in Utah, there were no other immigrants living in the area. Survival depended on determination, endurance, and an industrious disposition. They could get some of their supplies from the Native tribes but had to rely largely on themselves to create their resources and their own businesses. This idea of industry ties in to the same symbolism of the beehive as the community banded together to help one another and create an industry that has not only lasted, but grown significantly. 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.