The History of American Flag Folding

American flag folding is a revered tradition that carries profound symbolism, reflecting the nation’s history, values, and respect for its emblem. This ceremonial practice, often seen at military funerals, patriotic events, and flag-lowering ceremonies, transforms the flag into a compact triangular shape, with only the blue field of stars visible.

The process is not merely practical but steeped in meaning, honoring the sacrifices and ideals the flag represents. Exploring the history of this tradition and the steps to properly fold the flag reveals a ritual that connects generations and underscores national pride.

Origins of American Flag Folding

The practice of folding the American flag into a triangle has roots that are difficult to pinpoint precisely, as no definitive historical record outlines its inception. However, the tradition likely emerged alongside the growing reverence for the flag as a national symbol in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The flag’s design, with its stars and stripes, was formalized in 1777 by the Second Continental Congress, but folding rituals developed later as the flag became central to military and civic ceremonies. The triangular shape is widely believed to echo the tricorn hats worn by Revolutionary War soldiers, symbolizing the fight for independence.

By the 19th century, the flag’s role in military funerals began to solidify, particularly during the Civil War, when it was used to drape caskets of fallen soldiers. The folding of the flag after removal from the casket became a way to honor the deceased, with each fold executed with precision to reflect dignity. While the U.S. Flag Code, established in 1942, provides guidelines for flag display and care, it does not specify an official folding method. Instead, the tradition evolved through military and patriotic organizations, such as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), which standardized the procedure over time.

The 13 folds required to complete the triangle are often linked to the original 13 colonies, though this connection may be retrospective. Some sources suggest the folding practice was influenced by European military traditions, where flags were folded to protect them during storage or transport. Regardless of its exact origins, the ritual gained prominence in the 20th century, particularly during World War II, when military funerals became more common, and the flag’s symbolism deepened.

Symbolism Behind the 13 Folds

Each of the 13 folds in the American flag folding ceremony is imbued with symbolic meaning, though these interpretations are not officially mandated and vary slightly among organizations. The meanings, often recited during military funerals, reflect values such as honor, sacrifice, and faith. Below is a commonly accepted interpretation, as outlined by the American Legion and other patriotic groups:

First Fold: Symbolizes life, the beginning of the nation’s journey.
Second Fold: Represents belief in eternal life, acknowledging the sacrifices that endure beyond mortality.
Third Fold: Honors veterans who gave their lives for the country’s defense and peace.
Fourth Fold: Reflects trust in a higher power, guiding the nation in times of peace and war.
Fifth Fold: Pays tribute to the country, echoing the sentiment that it remains cherished, right or wrong.
Sixth Fold: Signifies the heart, where allegiance to the flag and republic resides.
Seventh Fold: Salutes the armed forces, protectors of the nation’s freedom.
Eighth Fold: Commemorates those who have passed, entering the “valley of the shadow of death.”
Ninth Fold: Celebrates womanhood, recognizing the contributions of mothers and women.
Tenth Fold: Honors fathers, who have supported the nation’s growth.
Eleventh Fold: Represents, for Jewish citizens, the seal of Kings David and Solomon, glorifying their faith.
Twelfth Fold: Symbolizes, for Christian citizens, eternity and the Holy Trinity.
Thirteenth Fold: Ensures the stars face upward, reminding all of the motto “In God We Trust.”

These meanings, while not universally standardized, are often read during ceremonies to emphasize the flag’s role as a symbol of unity and sacrifice. The National Flag Foundation notes that the folded flag resembles a “triangular pillow,” a dignified form that enhances the solemnity of presentations, such as when the flag is given to a veteran’s family.

How to Properly Fold an American Flag

Folding the American flag correctly requires care, precision, and respect. The process is traditionally performed by two people to ensure the flag remains taut and never touches the ground, a sign of disrespect according to flag etiquette. Below is a step-by-step guide to folding the flag, based on guidelines from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the American Legion.

Prepare the Flag: Two individuals hold the flag horizontally at waist height, with the blue field (union) in the upper left corner when viewed. Ensure the flag is clean and free of wrinkles, and work in a calm, clean area to avoid damage.
First Lengthwise Fold: Fold the flag in half lengthwise, bringing the striped section over the blue field so the stripes face up and the union faces down. Hold the edges securely to keep the flag taut.
Second Lengthwise Fold: Fold the flag in half lengthwise again, bringing the folded edge up to meet the open edge. The blue field should now be visible on both sides, facing outward.
Begin Triangular Folds: Starting at the striped end, fold the bottom corner of the folded edge up to meet the top edge, forming a triangle. Ensure the sides of the triangle are even and aligned.
Continue Triangular Folds: Fold the outer point of the triangle inward, parallel to the open edge, to form a second triangle. Repeat this process, making triangular folds along the length of the flag, keeping each fold precise and taut.
Complete the Folds: Continue folding until only the blue field with stars is visible, typically after 13 folds. Tuck any remaining fabric into the pocket formed by the folds to create a neat triangle.
Inspect the Result: The final shape should resemble a tricorn hat, with only the blue field visible and no red or white stripes showing. This ensures the flag is ready for storage or display.

For storage, place the folded flag in a clean, dry location, preferably in a triangular display case to protect it from sunlight and humidity, which can cause fading or damage. Regular inspection for tears or fraying is recommended, and damaged flags should be retired respectfully, often through a ceremonial burning organized by groups like the VFW.

Cultural and Emotional Significance

The act of folding the American flag transcends mere procedure, serving as a moment of reflection and connection. At military funerals, the flag is folded with meticulous care by an honor guard, then presented to the family with words of gratitude for the veteran’s service. This gesture carries immense emotional weight, symbolizing the nation’s appreciation for sacrifice. The ritual is also performed during patriotic holidays like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, reinforcing the flag’s role as a unifying emblem.

The tradition resonates with civilians as well, from Scouts learning flag etiquette to families displaying the flag at home. Posts on X highlight personal stories, such as a user recalling learning to fold the flag as a Cub Scout, underscoring how the practice fosters lifelong respect. The folded flag, whether stored or displayed, serves as a tangible link to the nation’s history and values.

Preserving the Tradition

Mastering American flag folding is a skill that honors the flag’s legacy and the principles it embodies. Regular practice ensures precision, while understanding the symbolism deepens appreciation. Whether folding the flag for a ceremony, storage, or display, the process is a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the enduring strength of the nation. By following proper etiquette and passing this knowledge to future generations, the tradition remains a vibrant expression of patriotism.

In conclusion, American flag folding is a ritual that blends history, symbolism, and respect. From its murky origins in military tradition to its modern role in ceremonies, the practice reflects the nation’s gratitude and unity. By learning to fold the flag correctly and appreciating the meaning behind each fold, individuals contribute to a legacy that honors the past and inspires the future.