Joseph H. Diss Debar

September 26, 1863: The First West Virginia Legislature Adopts State Motto and Great Seal

On September 26, 1863, the first West Virginia Legislature adopted our state motto and great seal. Both were the brainchild of Joseph H. Diss Debar of…

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March 6, 1820: Great Seal Designer Joseph H. Diss Debar Born in France

Joseph H. Diss Debar was born in France on March 6, 1820. He immigrated to the United States at age 22. On his voyage across the Atlantic, he happened to…

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