The American flag isn’t the only flag that’s relevant to our country’s history. There have been dozens of other flags created and displayed in the United States, one of which is the Pine Tree Flag. The Pine Tree Flag lives up to its namesake by featuring a pine tree. It depicts a single pine tree in the center. While it has a simple design, the Pine Tree Flag
Overview of the Pine Tree Flag
Also known as the Appeal to Heaven Flag, the Pine Tree Flag was one of the first flags displayed during the American Revolution. It depicts a pine tree along with the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven.”
History of the Pine Tree Flag
The Pine Tree Flag’s origins can be traced back to the beginning of the American Revolution. It was designed by Colonel Joseph Reed who, at the time, was George Washington’s secretary. Reed proposed a design consisting of a white background, a tree in the center and the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven” at the top. In 1776, the Massachusetts General Court passed a resolution stating that the tree should be a “green pine tree.”
During the American Revolution, the Pine Tree Flag was used as a maritime signal. It was prominently displayed on a half-dozen cruisers commissioned by George Washington. Other colonial ships began to display the Pine Tree Flag as well.
What Does the Pine Tree Flag Symbolize?
You might be wondering what the Pine Tree Flag symbolizes. The main focus of the Pine Tree Flag, of course, is the pine tree. It features a single pine tree in the center.
The pine tree symbolizes independence. Pine trees were common throughout New England. Britain, however, passed the Mast Preservation Clause, which allowed it to claim pine trees in New England with a diameter of at least 24 inches. As a result, the pine tree became a symbol of independence and resistance against Britain.
Ships were often built using pine trees. And during the American Revolution, the Pine Tree Flag was displayed on ships, such as those commissioned by George Washington. Regardless, the Pine Tree Flag symbolizes independence and resistance against Britain.
In Conclusion
The Pine Tree Flag was an early American Revolution flag. As its name suggests, it features a pine tree. The Pine Tree Flag consists of a white background with a single pine tree in the center. At the top is the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven.”
