The Salvation Army, founded in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth, is a British non-profit organization that has grown into a global movement with nearly two million members. Known for its dual role as a charitable organization and a Christian church, its iconic logo reflects its mission of compassion, faith, and service.

The Evolution of The Salvation Army Logo

The Salvation Army’s visual identity is remarkable for its consistency, with two primary emblems used since its inception. These symbols effectively convey the organization’s values and mission, with one design introduced in 1901 still serving as its primary logo today.

1865–Present: The First Emblem

The original logo, designed in 1865, is a striking circular badge that exudes grandeur and symbolism. Its design elements include:

• Central Medallion: A blue-and-white circle with the bold red letter "S" at its center, representing "Salvation."
• Symbols of Faith: Intertwined with the "S" are the Red Cross and two swords, highlighting the organization’s spiritual foundation and commitment to the fight against poverty and despair.
• Crown and Stars: Atop the badge is a yellow crown adorned with five four-pointed stars, evoking notions of victory and divine grace.
• Radiating Triangles: Yellow rays emanate from the medallion, giving it the appearance of a royal medal.
• Motto: Around the medallion's blue edge, the phrase "Blood and Fire" appears in white, symbolizing the blood of Christ and the fire of the Holy Spirit.
• Wordmark Ribbon: Beneath the badge is a red ribbon inscribed with a white wordmark, providing additional emphasis on the organization’s purpose.

This elaborate design underscores The Salvation Army’s deep religious roots and its mission to bring hope and salvation to those in need.

1901–Present: The Crest Logo

In 1901, The Salvation Army adopted a simplified yet enduring logo. This emblem, a shield-shaped crest, continues to be the organization’s primary visual identifier.

• Shield Design: The logo features a bold red shield with a double white outline, symbolizing protection, strength, and unity.
• Wordmark: The inscription, The Salvation Army, is elegantly written in white, arranged diagonally in three tiers. The serif font lends a sense of tradition and authority, with subtle curves adding a graceful touch.
• Color Scheme: The red and white palette reflects passion, love, and purity—core principles of The Salvation Army’s mission.

The Meaning Behind the Logo

The Salvation Army’s logos are more than just visual identifiers; they are rich with meaning:

• Red: Symbolizes the organization’s passion, commitment, and the love it shares with the world.
• White: Stands for purity, unity, and the selfless nature of its work.
• Shield Shape: Represents protection and the fight against injustice, poverty, and suffering.

A Legacy of Consistency

The Salvation Army’s commitment to its visual identity mirrors its steadfast mission over the decades. While the original emblem continues to symbolize its spiritual and historical roots, the simplified crest has become an iconic symbol of hope, charity, and unwavering dedication.

These timeless designs ensure that wherever The Salvation Army operates, its values and mission are instantly recognizable, uniting communities under a shared banner of compassion and service.