The American flag hasn’t always featured the same arrangement of stars and stripes as it does today. When the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence in July 1776, the American flag had a red-white-and-blue ensign in the upper-left corner rather than stars. Known as the Continental Colors flag or the Grand Union flag, it was the country’s first official flag. It wasn’t until about a year later when stars were introduced. Who designed the first American flag featuring both stars and stripes exactly?
Origins of the Stars and Stripes Flag
The first American flag featuring both stars and stripes was likely designed by American author and composer Francis Hopkinson. Hopkinson, of course, was one of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence. It’s believed that Hopkinson was asked to design a new version of the American flag sometime in 1777, to which he agreed. Hopkinson took the original American flag and replaced the ensign with an arrangement of stars. The new design featured the same horizontal stripes, but instead of the ensign, it featured an arrangement of 13 white stars against a blue background in the upper-left corner.
Hopkinson sent bills to Congress asking to be paid for his work. Therefore, it’s highly likely that Hopkinson did, in fact, design the first American flag featuring both stars and stripes. Hopkinson was actually the only person to make this claim. As a result, he was probably responsible for designing the first American flag with both stars and stripes.
Did Betsy Rotsy Design It?
Some people reject the idea that Hopkinson designed the first American flag featuring stars and stripes. Instead, they believe Betsy Ross designed it. Ross, of course, was a professional seamstress and upholster who often created flags. The story goes that Ross was given a sketch of the American flag by George Washington, and this sketch contained stars in the upper-left corner. Critics, however, say there’s no evidence that Ross designed the first American flag with both stars and stripes. There are no accounts of this story in Washington’s journals, and even Ross’s grandson said there are no official records of the story occurring.
In Conclusion
Prior to the featuring stars, the American flag had a red-white-and-blue ensign. Stars weren’t introduced to the American flag until 1777. Most historians believe that Hopkinson designed the first American flag with both stars and stripes. There’s evidence showing that Hopskin billed Congress for designing the flag. In comparison, there’s no evidence that Ross designed it.
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About the author
Barry Mason is a proud third-generation American whose grandfather served in World War II. Born and raised in small-town Tennessee, Barry developed a deep appreciation for American history and traditions from an early age, learning about the sacrifices made by previous generations. Barry has spent over a decade writing about flag etiquette, patriotic traditions, military history, and the stories behind America's most cherished symbols. When he's not researching the fascinating history of Old Glory, you can find Barry volunteering at veterans' events, coaching youth baseball, or exploring America's national parks with his family. A firm believer in supporting American manufacturing and small businesses, Barry is passionate about celebrating the craftspeople who keep American traditions alive. He lives with his wife and two children in a home where the American flag flies proudly every day. Favorite quote: "Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction." - Ronald Reagan
