The History Behind the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House

 

Early History of the Flag House

The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House has a rich and storied history that dates back to the late 1700s. Originally constructed by a wealthy merchant named John Eager Howard, the Flag House is a classic example of a colonial-style home with its brick walls, wooden floors, and steep-pitched roof. Howard owned the house until he sold it to Mary Pickersgill in 1807. Mary Pickersgill was a skilled seamstress and flagmaker whom Commodore Joshua Barney commissioned to create a large American flag during the War of 1812. Pickersgill and her team of seamstresses worked tirelessly by hand to sew the flag, and after six weeks of hard work, they completed it, measuring an impressive 30 feet by 42 feet.

The American flag that Pickersgill created was flown over Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814. The flag withstood a fierce bombardment by British forces and became a symbol of American resilience and patriotism. Francis Scott Key, who was being held captive on a British ship in the harbor, saw the flag still flying after the battle and was inspired to write the poem "Defence of Fort M'Henry," which later became the national anthem of the United States.

Role During the War of 1812

The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House played a pivotal role during the War of 1812, serving as the site where the iconic flag that inspired the national anthem was created. Its significance extends beyond its walls, connecting the efforts and sacrifices of ordinary citizens to one of the most defining moments in American history. The following points highlight the Flag House’s importance during this turbulent era:

• The Flag House was the residence and workshop of Mary Pickersgill, the skilled seamstress commissioned to create a massive garrison flag for Fort McHenry. Over six weeks in the summer of 1813, Pickersgill, aided by her family and apprentices, painstakingly crafted the 30-by-42-foot flag. This project showcased the critical role of women and artisans on the home front, directly supporting the military’s morale and readiness as Baltimore prepared for a British assault.

• The flag sewn in the Flag House became a powerful symbol during the Battle of Baltimore in September 1814. As British forces bombarded Fort McHenry for 25 hours, the sight of the enormous American flag flying over the fort at dawn signaled the defenders’ resilience and ultimate victory. This moment not only marked a turning point in the war but also reinforced the unity and determination of the American people.

• The creation of the Star-Spangled Banner flag at the Flag House directly inspired Francis Scott Key, who witnessed the flag’s endurance during the battle. Moved by the flag’s survival and what it represented, Key penned the poem “Defence of Fort M’Henry.” This work would later become the lyrics to the United States’ national anthem, forever linking the Flag House to a central symbol of American identity.

• The Flag House’s involvement in these events highlights the interconnectedness of civilian effort and military achievement during the War of 1812. By providing a tangible contribution to the defense of Baltimore, the Flag House and its occupants demonstrated how everyday Americans played essential roles in shaping the nation’s destiny during times of conflict.

In summary, the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House stands as a testament to the vital contributions made by civilians during the War of 1812. Its legacy endures not only as the birthplace of the nation’s most famous flag but also as a symbol of the resilience, unity, and patriotism that defined America during one of its most challenging periods.

After the War of 1812

After the war, Pickersgill continued to live in the Flag House until she died in 1857. The house remained in the Pickersgill family for several generations until it was eventually sold to a private owner. In the early 1900s, the Flag House was in danger of being demolished, but a group of concerned citizens banded together to save the historic landmark. In 1927, the Flag House was opened to the public as a museum dedicated to the preservation of American history and the American flag. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the American flag and its significance in American history. The Flag House also features a gift shop that sells American flags, memorabilia, and souvenirs.

Its Journey and Preservation as a National Icon

The history and preservation of the Star-Spangled Banner flag itself, including how it was cared for, its journey to institutions like the Smithsonian, and efforts to maintain it as a national icon. The flag remained at Fort McHenry under the stewardship of Major George Armistead, the fort’s commander. Upon Armistead’s death in 1818, the flag passed to his widow, Louisa Hughes Armistead, and then to their daughter, Georgiana Armistead Appleton. For much of the 19th century, the flag was preserved as a family heirloom, treasured not only for its historical significance but also as a deeply personal reminder of sacrifice and victory. During this period, a unique tradition emerged: the Armistead family, and later select caretakers, would occasionally cut small pieces from the flag to give as keepsakes to honored guests, veterans, and dignitaries. This practice, while rooted in reverence, resulted in the gradual loss of several fragments, including the mysterious disappearance of one of the flag’s fifteen stars—a subject that remains a topic of speculation and legend.

The flag’s journey into the public trust began in earnest in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1873, Georgiana Armistead Appleton lent the flag to George Preble, a noted flag historian, who exhibited it at the New England Historic Genealogical Society and arranged for its first known photograph. After Appleton’s death in 1878, the flag was inherited by her son, Eben Appleton, who recognized its national importance. In 1907, he lent the flag to the Smithsonian Institution, and in 1912, he made the gift permanent, expressing his desire that it be “conveniently seen by the public and well cared for.” This act ensured the flag’s preservation would become a matter of national responsibility, rather than remaining solely a family concern.

Once at the Smithsonian, the Star-Spangled Banner flag underwent its first major conservation efforts. Decades of display, handling, and the removal of souvenir pieces had left the flag fragile and diminished in size. Recognizing the need for expert care, the Smithsonian enlisted Amelia Fowler, a pioneering flag preserver, in 1914. Fowler and her team of needlewomen spent eight weeks reinforcing the flag with a linen backing, using a patented honeycomb stitch to support the weakened fabric. This early conservation project was a landmark in textile preservation, reflecting both the growing expertise in the field and the increasing importance placed on safeguarding national treasures.

For much of the 20th century, the flag was displayed in the Smithsonian’s Arts and Industries Building, though the limitations of the display case meant that portions of the flag had to be folded out of view. In 1964, the opening of the National Museum of History and Technology (now the National Museum of American History) allowed the flag to be exhibited in its entirety, offering visitors an awe-inspiring view of the massive banner that had once flown over Fort McHenry. However, continued exposure to light, pollution, and fluctuating environmental conditions posed ongoing threats to the flag’s integrity.

Recognizing these challenges, the Smithsonian launched a comprehensive preservation project in the late 1990s. Beginning in 1999, a multidisciplinary team of conservators, scientists, and historians undertook painstaking work to ensure the flag’s survival for future generations. This process included the removal of the earlier linen backing, which had begun to stress the flag’s fibers, as well as the careful cleaning of the fabric using specialized sponges and solutions designed to lift embedded dirt without damaging the original material. A new sheer polyester backing was applied to lend support while minimizing visual interference, and every step of the process was carefully documented to preserve the flag’s historical record.

Throughout this modern conservation effort, the Smithsonian made the process visible to the public, allowing millions of visitors to observe the delicate work and reinforcing the flag’s status as a living artifact, one whose preservation is a shared national undertaking. In 2008, the flag was installed in a new, state-of-the-art, climate-controlled gallery designed to minimize environmental stress and ensure its long-term stability. Today, the Star-Spangled Banner flag stands not only as a physical relic of a pivotal moment in American history but also as a testament to the nation’s ongoing commitment to remembering and honoring its past. Its journey from Pickersgill’s hands to the Smithsonian’s care embodies the evolving meaning of national symbols and the importance of preservation in sustaining the stories that define a people. Through careful stewardship, the flag remains a source of inspiration, unity, and reflection for all who encounter it.

The Flag House in the 20th Century

Today, visitors to the Flag House can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the history of the American flag and the War of 1812. The museum also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year, including Flag Day celebrations and Fourth of July festivities.

For those who wish to buy American flags, the Flag House gift shop is a great place to start. However, there are many other options available, including online retailers like the U.S. Flag Store and the American Flag Store. These stores offer a wide selection of American flags in various sizes and materials, along with accessories such as flagpoles and mounting hardware. When purchasing a U.S. flag, it's important to choose a flag that is made in the United States and is of high quality. A good-quality flag will be made of durable materials and will have vibrant, long-lasting colors. It's also important to choose the right size flag from a flag store for your needs, whether you're looking for a small flag to display in your home or a large flag to fly outside. The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is a vital part of American history and serves as a symbol of the resilience and patriotism of the American people. Mary Pickersgill's creation of the American flag that inspired Francis Scott Key's poem is a testament to the determination and spirit of the American people, especially in times of war.

The Flag House is not only a museum but also a place where visitors can learn about the history of the American flag and its significance in American culture. It is also a great place to purchase American flags and other patriotic souvenirs.

Restoration and Modern Significance

There are efforts to restore the Flag House, its current status as a historic site or museum, and its ongoing cultural and educational importance. There has been some controversy over the use and display of the American flag. Some people view the flag as a symbol of unity and patriotism, while others view it as a symbol of oppression and injustice. However, regardless of one's views on the American flag, it is clear that the flag is an important part of American history and culture.

As we celebrate our nation's history and look toward the future, it is important to remember the sacrifices and contributions of those who came before us. The Star-Spangled Banner Flag House is an excellent place to learn about the history of the American flag and the people who created it. It is also a great place to purchase an American flag and show your support for our country.