Celebrate Freedom
On July 1st we started our Independence Day celebrations with the raising of two flags. There are two flagpoles along the driveway to our home and I like to change the flags for various holidays and events. In this case, we raised the Betsy Ross flag and the “Appeal to Heaven” flag.
Betsy Ross flag
Betsy Ross flag
The origin of the original thirteen-star flag has been mostly lost to history. According to one story George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross came to the home of Philadelphia upholsterer Betsy Ross to discuss the design of a national flag. Impressed by her skill, they hired her to sew the first flag of this design in 1776. If you are older, that is the story you probably read in school history books. However, this account is based solely on stories passed down in the Ross family.
An Appeal to Heaven flag
An Appeal to Heaven flag
Most people recognize the Betsy Ross flag, but far fewer are familiar with the Appeal to Heaven flag. In 1775, George Washington outfitted and commanded six schooners that sailed off the coast of the colonies and intercepted British vessels. Washington’s ships captured 55 prizes and provided valuable supplies to American troops besieging Boston. This flag became the maritime flag of Massachusetts and remained unchanged until 1971 when the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven” was removed.
The original Appeal flag was recently in the news because of its use by Trump supporters and when flown outside the vacation home of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito.
Both flags will fly in front of my home during the month of July.
