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Celebrating Flag Day: History and Activities

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  • Observed on June 14
  • Purpose: To commemorate the adoption of the United States flag on June 14, 1777
  • Activities:
    • Display of the American flag,
    • Parades
    • Ceremonies
    • Educational programs about flag history and etiquette

In the beginning, there were variations in the early flag designs, particularly in the arrangement of the stars, as the original flag resolution did not specify their exact configuration.

The earliest official American flag was the “Stars and Stripes” design, which was adopted by the Continental Congress on June 14, 1777. This flag featured 13 alternating red and white stripes, representing the 13 original colonies, and 13 white stars on a blue field, symbolizing a new constellation. ( https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/short-history-united-states-flag ).

Before the official adoption of the Stars and Stripes, several other flags were used:

  1. The Continental Colors or Grand Union Flag: This was considered the first “official” flag of the United States, consisting of 13 red and white stripes with the British Union Jack in the canton.
  2. The Gadsden Flag: Designed in 1775, it featured a yellow field with a coiled rattlesnake and the words “DONT TREAD ON ME”.
  3. The Moultrie Flag: Created in 1775, it had a blue field with a white crescent moon and the word “LIBERTY”.

FUN FACTS ABOUT OUR FLAG!

  • The American flag was officially adopted by congress on June 14, 1777. 
  • Red represents valor, white represents innocence and blue represents justice. 
  • President Woodrow Wilson established the first annual Flag day celebration on June 14, 1917. The day commemorates the adoption of the US flag by congress in 1777.
  • The flag had 27 different versions, with each version having a different number of stars.
  • Nick names are Olds Glory and The Star Spangled Banner.
  • A high school student designed the fifty star pattern. His name was Bob Heft.
  • Flags cant be displayed at night unless it is illuminated on a flag pole. It must be raised quickly and lowered slowly. It must be displayed with the blue corner up; and don’t fly the flag during adverse weather conditions.
  • There are six American flags on the moon.

How to care about Flag day:

  • Flag Day:
    • Display the American flag correctly
    • Learn about its history and significance
    • Participate in local Flag Day events

Flag Folding Ceremony

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