The date commemorates the founding of Josiah Wedgwood and Sons which took place in 1759. This was chosen as part of a public vote, the other candidates remain other significant dates for flying the county flag:

July 5 – the anniversary of the discovery of the Staffordshire Hoard, which was uncovered in 2009;

September 6 – on that day in 1651 King Charles II hid in an oak tree in South Staffordshire;

September 18 – this was the birth date of Doctor Samuel Johnson who was born on this date in Lichfield in 1709;

September 27 – renowned engineer James Brindley, who lived in Leek, passed away on this date in 1772