WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost announced today that he will introduce a resolution in Congress later this week recognizing the historic, cultural, and political significance of the 13-star “Betsy Ross Flag.” The flag, which according to legend was designed and presented to General George Washington by seamstress and flag maker Betsy Ross, was adopted by the Continental Congress as the new American nation’s first flag in 1777.

“The Betsy Ross Flag represents the founding spirit of a new nation, one built from 13 very different states with a shared commitment to freedom,” said Bost. “Betsy Ross and her flag inspired patriots and suffragists. It has been displayed proudly at bicentennial celebrations and presidential inaugurations. Now more than ever, we should hold tight to the values this flag represents and not allow it to be torn and tattered by today’s political debates.”

Background:
Betsy Ross was born on January 1, 1752 in Philadelphia. Her first husband was killed during the American Revolution, leaving Betsy Ross a widow at the age of 24. During the war, she worked as seamstress and according to legend she presented a design for a flag for the new United States to General George Washington. This flag, with 13 five-point stars and 13 stripes, is known in popular culture as the “Betsy Ross Flag” and was adopted as the nation’s official flag by the Continental Congress in 1777. The flag has flown at numerous historical, cultural, and political events and celebrations, including our nation’s bicentennial and presidential inaugurations.

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