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The Story Behind Our Flag
"We take the star from Heaven, the red from our mother country, separating it by white stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her, and the white stripes shall go down to posterity representing liberty." — George Washington
In 1777 a young woman named Betty Ross received a visit from then general George Washington. His mission was to share with her an initial layout he had prepared of an American flag. Up until this time most flags had a naval use and were made by both sail makers and upholsterers. Ross, a quaker born in New Jersey, married, and widowed in Philadelphia was apprenticed in an upholstery shop. Her early career consisted of sewing mattresses, chair covers and window blinds. She had also been making flags for the Pennsylvania state navy board. Marla Miller, author of Betsy Ross, and the making of America notes that history is often filled with hyperbole and myths and says Betsy Ross‘ story is no different and many historians question her role in the creation of the American flag. Betsy Ross continued to make flags, banners and standards for the nation until her death in 1836.
Since 1777, the American flag has undergone twenty-six modifications. Today’s flag was created in the late 1950s by a high school junior as part of a class assignment. Although his teacher was unimpressed and graded him with a B- and called his design unoriginal, he continued to write letters and call the White House seeking approval for his design. He eventually earned a White House visit, and his design became official on July 4, 1960.
Flag Day, celebrated every year on June 14 is a holiday set to commemorate the date in 1777 when the United States approved the design for its first national flag. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14th the official day. In 1949 the US Congress permanently established the date as National Flag Day. Americans are encouraged to fly US flags during the entire week.
Some do's and don’ts about flying the American flag:
- No other flag may be flown above or to the right of the US flag except at the United Nations headquarters.
- Citizens may fly the flag at any time, but preferably from sunrise to sunset except for special occasions or when well lit.
- When a flag becomes unfit to fly, it should be destroyed with dignity, preferably burning.
- Displayed in a window, the flag should have the union to the left of outside observers.
- A flag should never touch the ground floor water or be carried horizontally. It should never be worn as apparel betting or drapery. It should not be used on a costume or athletic uniform.
If you are looking for ways to honor and celebrate flag day this year, consider these options: Fly the American flag in front of your residence. Participate in parades taking place in local communities and around the country. Read and learn more about respect for the American flag and its history.
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