The Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia recently uncovered new evidence supporting the claim that a seamstress sewed the first Stars and Stripes national flag in 1776 at her upholstery shop on Arch Street, writes Peter Crimmins for WHYY.
The story, originally presented by her descendants in the 19th century with minimal supporting evidence, has led historians to question its validity.
However, newly uncovered evidence may lend credibility to the claim.
An accounting ledger found by Mount Vernon researchers in 2014 points to Ross’ previous dealings with George Washington. In 1774, she made the bedding and curtains for his Mount Vernon bedrooms, which helped set up their future relationship.
“This finding was really exciting for us because some of the people who are doubtful about whether or not Betsy Ross stitched the first American flag, one of the things they cite is: Why would George Washington go to Betsy Ross of all people?’” said Lisa Acker Moulder, director of the Betsy Ross House.
The newly uncovered documentation proves that she had done work for him in the past.
“And it was a big job,” said Moulder.
Read more about the Betsy Ross House and the efforts to cement Ross’ place in American history in WHYY.
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Take a quick, engaging walk through the Betsy Ross House, exploring the rooms, stories, and artifacts that bring the life of America’s most famous flagmaker vividly into view.
Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on PHILADELPHIA Today in January 2025.
