Betsy Ross

Elizabeth Griscom Ross, born on January 1, 1752, was an influential American upholsterer and designer, best known for her association with the creation of the first U.S. flag, often referred to as the Betsy Ross flag. Although the story of her designing the flag was popularized by her family in the 1870s, historians have largely dismissed it due to a lack of contemporary evidence. According to family tradition, General George Washington and two members of a congressional committee visited her in 1776, where she allegedly convinced Washington to alter the star design from six points to five, demonstrating the ease of cutting the latter.

Despite the absence of documented proof, the narrative surrounding Ross gained traction, particularly after her grandson's writings and the subsequent promotion of the myth through a large oil painting by Charles Weisgerber at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. This painting, along with the establishment of the Betsy Ross House as a tourist attraction, helped solidify her legacy in American folklore.

During the American Revolution, Ross contributed significantly by making flags for the Pennsylvania Navy, and her craftsmanship continued for over fifty years. Notably, in 1811, she produced fifty garrison flags for the U.S. Arsenal on the Schuylkill River. The Pennsylvania Navy Board, which oversaw the flags, reported to the Committee of Safety, led by Benjamin Franklin, and included members such as Robert Morris and George Ross.

Records from May 29, 1777, confirm that Ross was compensated for her work on flags for the Pennsylvanian fleet, which included various designs such as an ensign with thirteen stripes and pennants. Her contributions to the naval flags were crucial during a time when the fledgling nation was establishing its identity.