Rosie's Ramblings

November 3, 2001

Hello Out There,

Patriotic fever prevails at Rosie’s again this month. This time I am taking a look at my Betsy Ross needle books. Along with millions of other American school children, I was taught that Betsy sewed our very first flag. I have discovered that this may well be one of the first “urban myths”. Historians dispute the accuracy of the tale of our favorite American seamstress. You can read all about it at such sites as The Legend of Betsy Ross, Betsy Ross Homepage , or you can read my synopsis on my new Betsy Ross page here. Even if Betsy didn’t make the first flag, she is still a powerful historical figure. She was a working woman, a single-parent, a female land-owner and a bona fide flagmaker. Despite the efforts of some, Betsy is destined to remain the darling of American patriotism.

The last picture on the Betsy page is the inside of the bank advertisement book. It has the neatest little pictorial needle packet. I have several similar loose packets, but this is my first inside a needle book.

I was fortunate to be able to attend several antique shows/flea markets during the past month. I made a couple of personal finds, which is always exciting. My collection continues to grow and my interest remains perpetual. As always, I am here if you want to talk “needles”.

Rosie

e-mail: rosierider@yahoo.com

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