Four stars represent the constellation Southern Cross , a group of stars well known south of the equator. The Southern Cross appears on the flags of several nations in the Southern Hemisphere , including Australia and New Guinea. At certain times, the Southern Cross is barely visible from Key West. Six other stars represent the constellation Cygnus. Five of Cygnus' stars form the Northern Cross.
Many people consider the cross a religious symbol.
The Northern Cross also represents people who moved to Key West from the north and tourists. The Southern Cross also recalls early sailors who used it as a navigational aid. Finally, the two constellations symbolize the exchange of goods and services from north and south which upholds the Conch economy. Republic GEO L INKS Conch Republic Key West's flag nearly became a national symbol in 1982. Well, sort of.