The flag of the state of Illinois was designed in 1912 by Lucy Derwent and chosen by the Rockford Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in response to a contest held by that organization. The contest was led by Mrs. Ella Park Lawrence, state regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The flag became the official state banner on July 6, 1915 following its passage in the Illinois State House and Senate. Governor Edward F. Dunne did not sign the bill, but neither did he veto it.