The Betsy Ross NeedlebooksThe story of Betsy Ross and our first flag is wrought with controversy. According to some, Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross (1752-1836) did, in fact, design and sew our first Stars and Stripes. This account stems from the claims of her grandson, William J. Canby, made 94 years after the fact. Canby’s story states that Betsy Ross was visited by George Washington and two Congressmen in May of 1776. Betsy dazzled the gentlemen by demonstrating how to cut a 5-point star with one snip of the scissors. They were so impressed that they asked her to create the flag…and a legend was born. Canby’s account was first published by Harper’s Monthly in 1873 and captured the hearts of American’s.
Unfortunately, the tale has not passed the muster of many historians. After vigorous efforts, it is largely unsubstantiated. Nevertheless, most Americans believe the story and perpetuate the legend to this day. Betsy Ross embodies the soul of patriotism. Her popular working woman image has been used as an advertising ploy since the 1800’s. Here are some examples.
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