Who Made the First American Flag?

The question of who made the American flag has captivated historians, patriots, and curious minds for centuries. The story of the first American flag, often called the "Stars and Stripes" or "Old Glory," is woven into the fabric of the nation’s founding, symbolizing unity, resilience, and freedom. While Betsy Ross is frequently credited with creating the first flag, the truth is more complex, blending legend, historical evidence, and competing claims. 

This article explores the history of the first American flag, delves into Betsy Ross’s life and legacy, examines the inspirations behind the flag’s creation, traces its evolution to the modern design, and underscores the enduring importance of flying Old Glory. Finally, a recommendation is offered for those inspired to display this iconic symbol through HD Flagpoles, a trusted source for high-quality American flags.

The Birth of the Stars and Stripes

The American flag’s origins are tied to the Revolutionary War, a time when the thirteen colonies sought a unifying emblem to rally their cause against British rule. On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed the Flag Resolution, declaring, “Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.” This resolution marked the official adoption of the Stars and Stripes, but it left many details—such as the arrangement of stars or the flag’s proportions—open to interpretation, leading to varied designs in the early years.

While the resolution provided a framework, it did not specify who designed or sewed the first flag. The lack of concrete documentation from 1776–1777 has fueled debate among historians. The most enduring story points to Betsy Ross, a Philadelphia seamstress, as the creator of the first American flag. However, other figures, notably Francis Hopkinson, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, have also been credited with contributing to the flag’s design. The absence of definitive evidence leaves the question of who made the American flag a blend of historical fact and cherished folklore.

Betsy Ross A Seamstress in Revolutionary America

Betsy Ross, born Elizabeth Griscom in 1752 in Philadelphia, was a skilled upholsterer and seamstress whose life intersected with the American Revolution in profound ways. Raised in a Quaker family, Ross learned the trade of upholstery, which included sewing everything from furniture coverings to flags. She married John Ross, a fellow upholsterer, in 1773, but he died in 1776 during the war, leaving her to run the family business alone. Ross’s shop in Philadelphia became a hub for creating tents, uniforms, and flags for the Continental Army, earning her a reputation as a capable craftswoman.

The legend of Betsy Ross’s role in creating the first American flag emerged in 1870, when her grandson, William Canby, presented a paper to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. Canby claimed that in June 1776, George Washington, Robert Morris, and Colonel George Ross (a relative of her late husband) visited Ross’s shop with a rough sketch of a flag featuring thirteen stripes and thirteen six-pointed stars. According to the story, Ross suggested using five-pointed stars, which were easier to cut, and proposed a more symmetrical design. The committee accepted her suggestions, and she sewed the first flag, which was later approved by Congress.

While this tale is compelling, historians note the lack of contemporaneous evidence. No records confirm a flag committee in 1776, and George Washington, as commander of the Continental Army, was likely preoccupied with military campaigns. Despite these gaps, Ross’s story gained traction during the post-Civil War era, when Americans sought unifying patriotic symbols. Her role as a female contributor to the Revolution resonated, especially during the rise of the suffragette movement, cementing her place in American lore.

The Inspiration Behind the First Flag

The inspiration for the first American flag likely drew from a mix of practical needs and symbolic ideals. The thirteen colonies needed a distinct banner to differentiate their forces from British troops and to foster unity among diverse regions. The stars and stripes design reflected both European heraldic traditions and the colonies’ emerging identity. Stars, a common symbol in heraldry, represented celestial guidance and aspiration, while the thirteen stripes symbolized the unity of the colonies in their quest for independence.

The circular arrangement of stars in the so-called Betsy Ross flag, with thirteen five-pointed stars in a blue canton, was said to signify equality among the colonies, with no one state elevated above another. According to legend, George Washington described the design as “a new constellation in the heavens,” evoking the idea of a new nation taking its place among the world’s powers. While the colors red, white, and blue were not officially defined in 1777, later interpretations in 1782 for the Great Seal of the United States assigned red for valor, white for purity, and blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. These meanings have since been associated with the flag.

If Betsy Ross was involved, her inspiration may have been both practical and personal. As a seamstress, she understood the importance of a clear, reproducible design that could be seen from a distance. Her alleged suggestion of five-pointed stars reflects this pragmatism, as they were simpler to craft than six-pointed ones. Additionally, her Quaker background and widowed status may have instilled a deep sense of duty to support the Revolutionary cause, motivating her to contribute to a symbol of freedom.

When Was the First Flag Created?

The timeline of the first American flag’s creation is murky due to sparse documentation. The Betsy Ross story places the flag’s creation in June 1776, before the Declaration of Independence, when Washington and his committee allegedly visited her shop. However, most historians consider this unlikely, as no evidence suggests Congress prioritized a national flag before 1777. The Flag Resolution of June 14, 1777, is the first documented action by Congress to establish a national flag, suggesting that the first Stars and Stripes was created around that time.

Some scholars argue that the design attributed to Betsy Ross, with thirteen stars in a circle, did not appear until later. Grace Rogers Cooper, a Smithsonian researcher, dated the earliest documented use of this design to 1792, in a painting by John Trumbull. Earlier flags, such as those used by the Green Mountain Boys or the First Rhode Island Regiment, featured stars but often in different arrangements or with varying numbers of points. Thus, while the Stars and Stripes was officially adopted in 1777, the specific “Betsy Ross” design may have emerged later as one of many variations.

The Flag’s Progression to the Modern Version

The American flag has evolved significantly since 1777, reflecting the nation’s growth and changing identity. The original design, with thirteen stripes and thirteen stars, represented the founding colonies. As new states joined the Union, the flag’s design adapted. In 1795, Congress passed the Flag Act, adding two stars and two stripes for Vermont and Kentucky, creating a 15-star, 15-stripe flag. This version, known as the Star-Spangled Banner, inspired Francis Scott Key’s poem during the War of 1812.

By 1818, with five more states added, Congress recognized that increasing the number of stripes would make the flag unwieldy. The Flag Act of 1818 restored the thirteen stripes to honor the original colonies and mandated that a new star be added for each new state, effective on the Fourth of July following admission. This established the framework for the modern flag, which now features fifty stars for the fifty states, arranged in staggered rows, and thirteen stripes.

The flag’s design continued to evolve through the 19th and 20th centuries, with notable moments like the 48-star flag (1912–1959) and the current 50-star flag, designed by high school student Robert G. Heft in 1958 and adopted in 1960 after Hawaii’s statehood. Each iteration maintained the core elements of stars and stripes, preserving the flag’s role as a living symbol of the nation’s expansion and unity.

The Importance of Flying Old Glory

Flying the American flag, affectionately nicknamed “Old Glory” by sea captain William Driver in 1824, is a powerful act of patriotism and remembrance. The flag embodies the sacrifices of those who fought for independence, from the Revolutionary War to modern conflicts. Its presence at government buildings, schools, homes, and memorials serves as a reminder of the nation’s values—liberty, justice, and unity.

Displaying Old Glory fosters a sense of community and shared identity. It signals respect for the principles enshrined in the Constitution and honors veterans, first responders, and citizens who have contributed to the nation’s progress. The flag’s enduring symbolism also inspires hope, as seen in iconic moments like the raising of the flag at Iwo Jima or its display after national tragedies. Flying the flag encourages reflection on the nation’s history and a commitment to its future.

Moreover, the flag serves as a global symbol of freedom. In countries facing oppression, the Stars and Stripes often represents hope for democracy and human rights. Displaying it responsibly, with proper flag etiquette—such as raising it at sunrise and lowering it at sunset—ensures that its significance is honored. For individuals, flying Old Glory is a personal statement of pride in the nation’s resilience and ideals.

Where to Find a Quality American Flag

For those inspired to display the American flag, selecting a high-quality, American-made product is essential to honor its legacy. HD Flagpoles offers a range of durable, well-crafted American flags that embody the spirit of Old Glory. Available in various sizes and materials, such as nylon for all-weather use or polyester for high-wind areas, these flags are designed to withstand the elements while maintaining their vibrant colors. Each flag is manufactured in the United States, ensuring authenticity and supporting domestic craftsmanship.

HD Flagpoles also provides flagpole kits and accessories, making it easy to display the Stars and Stripes at homes, businesses, or community spaces. Their commitment to quality and customer service makes them a trusted choice for patriots seeking to celebrate the nation’s history. By choosing a flag from HD Flagpoles, individuals can proudly fly Old Glory, connecting with the legacy of the first American flag and its enduring symbolism. Visit their website at https://hdflagpoles.com/products/american-flag-for-sale to explore their offerings and invest in a symbol of freedom that will inspire for years to come.

Conclusion

The question of who made the American flag may never have a definitive answer, but the story of Betsy Ross endures as a testament to the contributions of everyday Americans during the Revolution. Whether or not she sewed the first Stars and Stripes, her legacy as a skilled seamstress and patriot reflects the spirit of a fledgling nation. The flag’s evolution from thirteen stars to fifty mirrors the United States’ growth, while its enduring presence underscores the importance of unity and resilience. Flying Old Glory remains a meaningful act of patriotism, and with high-quality flags from HD Flagpoles, anyone can honor this iconic symbol. The Stars and Stripes, born in the crucible of revolution, continues to wave as a beacon of hope and freedom for generations.