Throughout the course of history, flags and banners have served as important symbols of our communities, heritage, and sovereignty. Flags are how we identify our nations and communities, and offer a sense of belonging to residents of that region. Woven within these flags are the stories of the populous they represents and a visual personification of a place’s rich history. The flag of the United States of American holds countless meanings for the culture it represents, and each person’s relationship to the flag will vary greatly based on their own experiences and histories. That said, in times of both great triumph and tribulation, it is the flag which unites us and unifies our nation when the future looks uncertain. As we prepare to celebrate Flag Day this upcoming Friday, June 14th, let’s take a moment to explore the history of the holiday, how it came to be, and how the holiday is celebrated today.
On June 14th, 1777, the United States Continental Congress decreed “that the flag of the United States shall be of thirteen stripes of alternate red and white, with a union of thirteen stars of white in a blue field, representing the new constellation.” While we’ve added on a number of stars over the years, this design was the basis for the flag we know and love today. While this declaration was made early on in the course of our nation’s history, it would not be for over half a century before celebrations and observances of Flag Day would actually begin. While the exact beginning of Flag Day is still contested amongst historians, it is generally believed that the first celebrations began where all great educational efforts do: within the walls of a classroom.
In 1885, Bernard J. Cigrand, a teacher from Wisconsin, enthusiastically shared with his pupils why they should celebrate the birthday of the United States flag. In his impassioned essay which was later published in Chicago, Mr. Cigrand went on to encourage his fellow countrymen to celebrate Flag Day as well. Just a couple of short years later, in 1888, William T. Kerr founded the American Flag Day Association of Western Pennsylvania and would ultimately spend the rest of his life fighting for this noble cause.
Despite its roots beginning in the 18th century, it was not until the 20th century that Flag Day would be celebrated on the national stage. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson declared that June 14th would officially be celebrated as Flag Day. While the ordinance was on the books for a few decades, it wasn’t until 1949 that the United States Congress officially permanently established the date for Flag Day. Although this is not currently celebrated as a federal holiday, each year, the President does offer a declaration for National Flag Week, and flying of the flag is encouraged throughout the country.
While the US flag is something many of us encounter each and every day, it is not something that we often think critically about. By taking a moment to reflect on where the flag came from and the rich history behind its flying, we can better appreciate the story of how our country started, progressed, and ultimately wound up where we are today. This year, don’t let Flag Day pass you by, and be sure to take some time to fully appreciate the beautiful banner of our nation.
