In 1982 an unofficial local flag was designed, based on the Collectivity's coat of arms. The flag is blue with a yellow ship, said to be Grande Hermine, which brought Jacques Cartier to Saint Pierre on 15 June 1536.[1] Three square fields placed along the hoist recall the origin of most inhabitants of the islands, from top to bottom, Basques, Bretons, and Normans.[2] The flag was likely designed by André Paturel, a local business owner.[citation needed]
Although not used at an official level, the flag is still a common sight in the territory, being flown alongside the French tricolour in front of private residences and even government buildings.