The Apache HTTP Server, commonly known as Apache httpd, is a free, open-source web server software project of The Apache Software Foundation (ASF). Its visual identity has been closely tied to the foundation’s own branding, centered for decades on a stylized feather icon that first appeared in the Apache HTTP logo in 1997 and later became the official ASF logo when the foundation formed in 1999.[1]
Design and History
The feather was first included in the Apache HTTP logo in 1997, then became the official logo of the Apache Software Foundation when it was formed in 1999.[1] In 2016, the icon was given a more modern look, a version that remained in use through the foundation’s subsequent rebrand.[1] The 2016 update was part of a broader new visual identity for the ASF, introduced alongside a redesigned website and described as featuring simplified color treatment and slimmer typography.[2]
In July 2024, the ASF announced it would retire the feather icon and logo, citing that as a non-Indigenous entity it was inappropriate to use Indigenous themes or language in its branding. The foundation stated it would replace the feather with a new logo embodying its history of providing software for the public good.[1] The new oak leaf logo was unveiled in September 2025, marking the end of the 26-year-old feather identity.[3]
The Apache HTTP Server project itself continues to operate under the ASF umbrella. The project’s official site, httpd.apache.org, identifies the software as a project of The Apache Software Foundation.[4]
Meaning and Symbolism
The ASF’s decision to retire the feather was driven by cultural sensitivity concerns raised by Indigenous advocacy groups, including Natives in Tech, who argued that non-Indigenous organizations should not use Indigenous themes or cultural elements in their branding.[3] The foundation acknowledged the feather as a well-loved and iconic part of its brand, noting community members with feather tattoos and photos taken with the feather at its annual events.[1]
The replacement oak leaf design was chosen to align with the ASF’s forest metaphor, in which eight founders “planted an acorn” in the 1990s that grew into today’s ecosystem. The ASF also stated that oak trees symbolize endurance, community stewardship, and distributed networks through their leaf vein patterns.[3]
Typography and Design
Following the 2016 brand refresh, the ASF’s identity style guide specified the “APACHE” wordmark in Raleway Regular with tracking set to -40, alongside red and dark gray as the primary brand colors.[5] The official style guide described the new visual identity as bringing “a modern look to an Open Source icon, the Apache feather.”[6]
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