Dear readers,

The editorial board is fine with City Manager Chris Morrill’s recommendation to restore to Roanoke its original seal of 1884, and a place of dignity among neighbors, who, in the main, have much better seals.

Ours is a consensus opinion, not unanimous: One of our number much prefers it to the current city seal, but objects to the steam engine in the background as backward-looking. Too 19th century.

It’s historic, the majority reminded, a symbol of the city’s beginnings that should stand throughout changing times. But we need not get into family squabbles here.

History won out. But the discussion raised an interesting question: If Roanoke City Council were to reject both versions, what should a brand new seal feature to reflect the spirit of the city today?

Morrill has invited Roanokers’ thoughts on the two existing designs. We’d like to hear, too, which you prefer. If what you’d really prefer is a brand new seal, what would it look like? Please send us your thoughts via our online submission tool, email (letters@roanoke.com) or by mail at Letters to the Editor, P.O. Box 2491, Roanoke, Va. 24010.

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