FLAG FUN!

This week, prior to the Fourth, is ideal to add a little summer fun (and learning) by checking out some fun flag facts. Create a trivia game, make a timeline, create your own flag or just quiz yourself for fun.

The Betsy Ross Home Page has a ton of wonderful resources, trivia and questions and answers about the US flag. Be sure and check it out. Below are a few of my favorite FAQ’s.

What do the red, white, and blue of the flag represent?

The Continental Congress left no record to show why it chose the colors. However, in 1782, the Congress of the Confederation chose these same colors for the Great Seal of the United States and listed their meaning as follows: white to mean purity and innocence, red for valor and hardiness, and blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. According to legend, George Washington interpreted the elements of the flag this way: the stars were taken from the sky, the red from the British colors, and the white stripes signified the secession from the home country. However, there is no official designation or meaning for the colors of the flag.

Why are the stars in a circle?

The stars were in a circle so that no one colony would be viewed above another. It is reported that George Washington said, "Let the 13 stars in a circle stand as a new constellation in the heavens."

You’ll be able to take a tour of Betsy Ross’ House, see a picture gallery of early American flags, find flag facts and timelines, read flag rules and etiquette, quotes and notes, trivia and much more.

For example, how did they decide on the type of star used on the flag?

George Washington's original pencil sketch for the flag indicated 6-pointed stars, a form he apparently preferred.

Betsy Ross, however, recommended a 5-pointed star. When the committee protested that it was too difficult to make, she took a piece of paper, folded it deftly, and with a single snip of her scissors, produced a symmetrical five-pointed star. This seeming feat of magic so impressed her audience that they readily agreed to her suggestion.

Find the secret and give it a try yourself HERE.

Dena Wood is co-owner of Trigger Memory Systems, publisher of Times Tales, Memory Triggers and the new Clean N’ Flip. She also manages the new Schoolhouse Store (always FREE shipping!) for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine.  She resides in eastern Washington and is currently homeschooling the three youngest of her five children. Visit her blog to learn more.