The Evolution of the American Flag

“Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag. When we view the flag, we think of liberty, freedom, pride, and Betsy Ross. The American flag flies on the moon, sits atop Mount Everest, is hurtling out in space. The flag is how America signs her name. It is no surprise that Betsy Ross has become one of the most cherished figures of American History.” —The Independence Hall Association, Philadelphia

The Evolution of the American Flag, (1909) offers the history of the American flag and the claims of the first American flag being made by Betsy Ross (1752–1863), a Philadelphia seamstress.

Americans love the story of the Betsy Ross flag, with its 13 five-pointed stars arranged in a circle. According to the Ross family tradition, Betsy Ross was asked by General George Washington in June 1776 to make the first American flag. This story was retold by Ross’ grandson William Canby in 1870, and after his death in 1890, his brother GEORGE CANBY (1829–1907) and nephew LLOYD BALDERSON (1849–1921) presented the claims in this book.

Many historians have not been able to verify the Canby claims and the truth is that nobody can prove that Betsy Ross was responsible for the first official Stars and Stripes. There are many Betsy Ross supporters, however, who do believe the Betsy Ross story and that she is truly        “one of the most cherished figures of American History.”