American Flags of Freedom » betsy ross flag

The meaning of the colors and design of the American flag

admin — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:46:09 +0000

The meaning of the colors as of the American flag as well as the design came from the Great Seal and it was Charles Thompson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress who commenced the specific representation of each color. This information was also taken from a book published in 1977 by the House of Representatives.

Here are some pointers of what the colors and design signify:

The color white on the vertical stripes signify purity and innocence. The red color means hardiness and valor. The blue broad band beneath the white stars denotes the color of the chief which implies vigilance, perseverance and justice.
Stars symbolize the heavens and at the same time, the divine goal that man aspired to reach from the very start. Stripes symbolize the rays of light that are coming from the sun. This will be discussed further on What the American Flag Stripes Represent.
A gold fringe can be placed on the flag but it is optional. It is considered to be an ‘honorable enrichment’ and was used by the US Army. A quote that further explains that is found on the book called “So Proudly We Hail, the History of the United States Flag” this is written by William R. Furlong and Byron McCandless and was taken from the Smithsonian Institute Press 1981. According to the Institute of Heraldry, this is acceptable for various organizations that use the American flag. However, it is better if the fringe will be placed on indoor flags because they will deteriorate quickly when they are placed outside.

The flag could have a gold trim but it is commonly used on ceremonial flags that are used indoors for special services in a military setting. This one probably has no specific importance but its use should be in compliance with the applicable flag codes and laws.

As the colors of the American flag might vary in an individual’s standpoint and yet it will never lose its essence after decades and even centuries of its existence. It lies in the hearts of the ones who have given it due respect and importance and eventually would have to pass it on the younger generation, and re-live how it was once cherished by their Forefathers who have fought hard to win the battle to acquire the liberty that now has become a privilege of every American.

Who Made the First American Flag?

admin — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:44:30 +0000

The one thing that symbolizes the true meaning of an American is none other than the American flag. We can say that the origin of the American flag is a bit unclear because there are claims that the design has come from the fusion of other different flags which is considered have similarities with the flag itself. It has a high resemblance with British East India Company otherwise known as BEIC and was believed to be based upon the flag although this is also a theory and was never proven to be true. And thus another birth of a conflict took place when it was concluded that it was from the Washington family coat of arms but the idea was also eventually dismissed after sometime.

Another story that they claimed as a historical myth is that the flag was design by Elizabeth Griscom Ross or better known as Betsy Ross right after the Civil War. She was said to be personally commissioned by George Washington. The story was not known if not for her son who claimed after thirty-four years that it was designed by her. The issue about Betsy Ross flag became highly controversial and it was something terribly debated by historians.

Another unofficial flag is the Grand Union Flag. The flag has a rattlesnake and a “Don’t Tread on me” motto was written on it. The Stars and Stripes by Francis Hopkinson is recorded to be approved by the Congress and is considered as the first official national flag. Other flag makers who claim to have a say in the birth of the American Flag are Rebecca Young, Anne King, Cornelia Bridges, and William Barrett.

The origin of the American flag would probably have different legends until now and it has evolved all throughout its existence for over 200 years. All the other versions of stories were not yet verified up to this time. Since the flag evolved for plenty of years and the latest was the addition of stars that represents the states, the latest flag rendition that was used the longest time was with the addition of Hawaii as a State.

Cotton American Flag

admin — Wed, 26 May 2010 15:42:54 +0000

The Cotton American flag is usually preferred for indoor use and is considered to be a pleasant display. It is positively made with the finest cotton that’s why it has vibrant colors and very smooth texture. The stripes of cotton flags are usually sewn individually and the stars are embroidered.

For the proper care of the flag, it is not advisable to be flown on rainy weather because it might fade. However, if the flag has gotten wet, then it should be spread on the ground or a flat, clean surface and allow it to dry completely. Taking special attention and care to the cotton American flag should be done vigorously.

When a flag has touched the ground by accident or maybe it has gotten off a flagpole and landed on dirt or mud, it should not be thrown nor destroyed, it should be cleaned instead. It is better to hand wash the flag and use warm water and mild detergent so that the colors will not fade. Oftentimes, it is advisable to seek professional cleaning stores if the dirt cannot be removed easily.

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