Betsy Griscom-Ross-Ashburn-Claypoole

George and Betsy in 1777 -
(probably not)

Well by golly it is Flag Day.

Betsy was supposed to have sewn the first flag and presented it to George Washington on this day, June 14, in 1777.  We weren't there and the matter, historical painting and all, are in some dispute.

The dispute rests in that there is no historical evidence that Betsy did such a thing.  The entire notion was cooked up by a great grand son about the time of the 19th century centennial celebrations.  We don't

Betsy's House ... look at the painting
and tell me which room that was.

care about it much except someone did it and they are getting aced out of the credit but it is too late now.

There is some evidence that the original 6 pointed stars, common to the period, were replaced by Betsy's 5 pointed ones but that is about the extent of historical accuracy. There is no evidence that the Betsy Ross House was hers and when workers tried to move her remains there from the St. Moriah cemetery in Cobbs Creek, they found no body. Hmmm.

Its a nice story though and I wouldn't want to ruin a flag day with accuracy.  What is below, however, is the real honest stuff.  Wave the flags. Hurrah!