Flag Picture Gallery

1775 American ships in New England waters flew a "Liberty Tree" flag . It shows a green pine tree on a white background, with the words, "An Appeal to Heaven."

1776 The Grand Union flag is displayed on Prospect Hill. It has 13 alternate red and white stripes and the British Union Jack in the upper left-hand corner

Betsy Ross It is widely believed, but not confirmed, that Betsy Ross sewed the first American Flag. The flag had 13 stars and 13 stripes to represent the 13 original colonies

1777 The first official national flag was approved by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777.

1818 In 1818, after five more states had gained admittance, Congress passed legislation fixing the number of stripes at 13 and requiring that the number of stars equal the number of states

1867 Flag with 37 stars Nebraska (March 1, 1867)

Flag Day On August 3, 1949 President Truman officially declared June 14th Flag Day.

1960 The last new star, bringing the total to 50, was added on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii became a state

Proposed flag with 51 stars, to be used if a 51st state is added. ?????

Symbols Red symbolizes Hardiness and Valor. Stripes and Stars Colors The stripes represent the 13 original colonies. The 50 stars represent the number of states. Red symbolizes Hardiness and Valor. White symbolizes Purity and Innocence. Blue represents Vigilance, Perseverance and Justice.

September 11 — The Flag from the World Trade towers survives and becomes a symbol of sacrifice in service, loss, and determination. 2001

The United States flag today

Proper Display The flag should be displayed from sunrise to sunset. If the flag is displayed at night it should be illuminated. Never allow the flag to touch the ground or the floor. When displayed on a wall or window the blue field should be in the upper left corner. The flag should be raised quickly and lowered ceremoniously. The flag is often flown at half-staff to show respect for someone who has died