KENNEBUNKPORT – A year after Maine became a state, Kennebunkport was incorporated.

And while the area was settled long before – it was first incorporated as Cape Porpus (spelled Porpoise, now) in 1653 and later as Arundel, the town became Kennebunkport in 1821.

Now, municipal officials are looking for folks to create a flag to commemorate the town on this, its bicentennial.

“What does Kennebunkport mean to you? What do you think are the town’s most distinguishing and charming features? How would you design a town flag to represent our community in a fun and distinctive way? We are seeking submissions for an official town of Kennebunkport flag,” town officials wrote in an announcement.

Entries for the Kennebunkport Flag Challenge, transmitted by email, must be received by 4:30 p.m. Monday, May 24.

“A beautifully designed town flag is an opportunity to represent our community; a symbol of our past, present and future,” officials said.

The town included guidelines from the North American Vexillological Association, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the study of flags and their cultural, historical, political and social significance.

The assoication advises flag designers to keep it simple – so simple a child could draw the flag from memory. Other guidelines include using meaningful symbolism representing the community; using two or three basic colors that contrast well. There should be no lettering or use of the town seal. They advise entrants to be distinctive and not to duplicate flags used by others.

Entries will be accepted by email at kportbicentennial@gmail.com.

The final flag design will be presented to the Kennebunkport Board of Selectmen for adoption in June 2021.

Town officials suggested that participants check out a video on flag design for further inspiration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnv5iKB2hl4

For the guidelines, visit https://www.kennebunkportme.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif3306/f/news/flag_design_challenge.pdf