Betsy Ross, American Flag Design
by British Library
Title
Betsy Ross, American Flag Design
Artist
British Library
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
Betsy Ross (1752-1836), born Elizabeth Griscom, is widely credited with making the first American flag. There is, however, no credible historical evidence that the story is true. When the American Revolutionary War broke out her husband, John Ross, was a member of the local militia who was assigned to guard munitions and was killed by a gunpowder explosion. The 24-year-old Betsy worked in the upholstery business repairing uniforms and making tents and blankets. Research conducted by the National Museum of American History notes that the story of Betsy Ross making the first American flag for General George Washington entered into American consciousness about the time of the 1876 centennial celebrations. Historians conclude that she was one of several flag makers and her main contribution to the design was to change the 6-pointed stars to the easier 5-pointed stars. This portrait was published in 1878.
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December 21st, 2014
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