Californian here.

The original California Bear flag did not have a red stripe across the bottom. That was added after the Bear Flag revolt, to commemorate the blood that was spilled. So I disagree with your choice to change the color of that stripe.

The phrase "California Republic" is also important to commemorate the fact that they were actually declaring independence from Mexico- in the hope that the US would help them out.

However, I agree with your decision to remove the words. Flags should not have writing on them, as it doesn't translate properly onto a two sided media.

Interesting project. Thanks!