This iconic sign has become a symbol of the city and attracts millions of visitors each year. But how much do you really know about this famous sign? In this blog post, we'll explore five fascinating facts about the Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
]]>
This iconic sign has become a symbol of the city and attracts millions of visitors each year. But how much do you really know about this famous sign? In this blog post, we'll explore five fascinating facts about the Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
The Welcome to Las Vegas sign was designed by a talented artist named Betty Willis. In 1959, the local government commissioned Willis to create a sign that would welcome visitors to the city. She came up with the iconic design featuring the words "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" in bold, neon letters. Willis never copyrighted the design, allowing it to become a public symbol of Las Vegas.
If you're planning a trip to Las Vegas, you can't miss the Welcome to Las Vegas sign. It is located on the southern end of Las Vegas Boulevard, also known as "The Strip." The sign stands on a median strip, making it easily accessible to pedestrians and drivers alike. Be sure to stop by and snap a photo to commemorate your visit to Sin City!
Over the years, the Welcome to Las Vegas sign has undergone several restorations to keep it looking its best. In 2008, the sign was refurbished and fitted with energy-efficient LED lights, replacing the original neon lighting. The restoration efforts ensure that the sign remains a vibrant and eye-catching landmark for years to come.
For many visitors, the Welcome to Las Vegas sign is more than just a landmark—it's a symbol of luck. It is common for tourists to rub the sign or kiss it for good luck before hitting the casinos. Whether or not it brings actual luck, it has become a fun tradition for those seeking a little extra fortune during their stay in Las Vegas.
If you're worried about finding parking near the Welcome to Las Vegas sign, don't fret! The sign is surrounded by several parking spaces, making it convenient for visitors to stop and take pictures. There's even a designated parking lot nearby, so you won't have to worry about finding a spot. Just remember to be cautious when crossing the road to reach the sign.
Now that you know these five facts about the Welcome to Las Vegas sign, you'll have a deeper appreciation for this iconic landmark. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Las Vegas veteran, be sure to make a stop at the sign and capture a piece of Vegas history.
]]>
]]>
Here are five compelling facts that capture the essence of the Beehive State:
1. Renowned Geography : Utah is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes. The state is home to five national parks—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. These national parks each showcase the geological wonders of the region, featuring towering red rock formations, slot canyons, and expansive plateaus that attract millions of visitors annually.
2. The Great Salt Lake: Utah is home to the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, the Great Salt Lake. This remarkable body of water covers an area of approximately 1,700 square miles and is known for its high salinity, exceeding that of the ocean. The lake is a significant natural landmark and a habitat for various bird species.
3. Winter Sports Hub: With renowned resorts of Park City, Deer Valley, and Snowbird, Utah's world-class ski resorts make it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe. Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002, beating out other international cities including Québec City, Canada; Sion, Switzerland; and Östersund, Sweden, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding.
4. Mormon Pioneer Heritage: Utah has a rich history tied to the settlement of the American West by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young. Salt Lake City, the state capital, was founded in 1847 and serves as the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The city's Temple Square, located in the heart of Salt Lake City, is a significant cultural and religious landmark.
5. Dinosaur Discoveries: Utah is a treasure trove for paleontologists and dinosaur enthusiasts. The state is home to numerous dinosaur fossil sites, including Dinosaur National Monument, where visitors can see well-preserved dinosaur bones embedded in the rock. The Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, another notable site, has yielded an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils.
Utah's distinctive features, from its unparalleled landscapes to its historical significance, make it a state with a rich tapestry of attractions and experiences.
Many of the military successes of the American Revolution were brought about by a man who was christened the title of General, yet, he had little experience in the field. That man was George Washington, bold, patriotic, and an extraordinary general at the time. George Washington led his army through many battles during the Revolutionary War and won quite a few of them. One of his most famous and well-known leadership feats was the Crossing of the Delaware River.
]]>Many of the military successes of the American Revolution were brought about by a man who was christened the title of General, yet, he had little experience in the field. That man was George Washington; bold, patriotic, and an extraordinary general at the time. George Washington led his army through many battles during the Revolutionary War and won quite a few of them. One of his most famous and well-known leadership feats was the Crossing of the Delaware River.
CROSSING OF THE DELAWARE RIVER
One of Washington’s meticulous plans occurred on the chilly night of December 25, 1776, the night when he sneakily crossed the Delaware River on boat. He desired to cross the river during night, in order for his army to not be seen, and arriving at Trenton in the morning to execute his next task – the Battle of Trenton.
The crossing was no easy task; his army was awfully tired from marching, everyone was cold, even the river showed no mercy as ice flowed among it, a lethal weapon of nature that could tear his armada of wooden boats to pieces. Clearly, to anyone, this would be dangerous enough for a few men – let alone an army of over 2,400 soldiers – but Washington persisted. He led his army through the stormy night over to the other side successfully to continue on to Trenton.
BATTLE OF TRENTON
After crossing the Delaware River, Washington continued up to Trenton, where the Hessians (German mercenaries that were hired by the British) resided at the time. Washington knew that seizing Trenton would provide an advantage for the Americans.
In a small yet pivotal battle, Washington deflected the Hessians’ attempts to divide his troops. The Hessian troops fled quickly, leaving their cannon behind, which the Continental troops acquired. They attacked the fleeing enemies until they stopped at an apple orchard, where Washington accepted their surrender plea, resulting in a swift win for the Continental army and more than 850 surrendered enemies (Source).
SIEGE OF BOSTON
The Siege of Boston, an event that went on for nearly 11 months, involved the Continental army surrounding Boston, which was under British control at the time. Washington desired to bring down the Loyalists inhabiting the city but his officers refused to attack the British, as the city was still receiving supplies by cargo ship and it could be overpowering to the Continental army (Source).
However great the prospect of reclaiming Boston was, Washington complied to this advice and held his troops off until the evening of March 4, 1776, when he ordered his men to acquire the cannon from Fort Ticonderoga out to Dorchester Heights, an area south of the city (Source). The British fired cannons in Cambridge throughout that night, but Washington sneakily barraged them with his own cannons in the morning.
General Howe of the Loyalist army chose to attempt an assault on the Continental army, but harsh weather conditions prevented this. Realizing the pure power of the Americans, he and his troops retreated to New York, and Washington regained control of the city. The day the British fled is known as “Evacuation Day”.
BECOMING THE FIRST PRESIDENT
When the Treaty of Paris was signed and the Revolutionary War ceased, the US needed their first president. Washington was a perfect candidate, the people said, as he was the US General for the Revolutionary War. Unfortunately for him, he expected to retire in Mount Vernon after his military career, but now the people were persuading him to become the first president. It was no easy task, Washington himself once said, “I walk on untrodden ground.” (Source). After all, he would be the first president in a country that just gained independence and wasn't entirely formed yet. Many important systems would need to be formed under his period of presidency. Fortunately for the people, he decided to take on the job grudgingly. He was elected as president on April 30, 1789.
LEGACY
George Washington played a great role in shaping our nation into what it is today. His opinion and values were held by presidents after him because he was a man of values and freedom. Today, he is known as the “Father of His Country”. His image can be found in many places; on the US one-dollar bill; on the Washington state flag; on Mount Rushmore; a statue outside of the Federal Hall Memorial; among other places. To continue his legacy and display your pride for the formation of our country, consider purchasing one of our handcrafted George Washington Revolution pieces today; only 1776 will be created.
]]>
Before 1956, the United States Army was the only branch of the military without an official flag to decorate it. In 1955, the Secretary of the Army noticed that the Army was facing a problem during joint service ceremonies without a flag to celebrate, which led to the creation of the United States Army flag in 1956, approved by President Eisenhower.
]]>Before 1956, the United States Army was the only branch of the military without an official flag to decorate it. In 1955, the Secretary of the Army noticed that the Army was facing a problem during joint service ceremonies without a flag to celebrate, which led to the creation of the United States Army flag in 1956, approved by President Eisenhower.
The center section of the Army flag is occupied by the Seal of the United States Army, which prior to 1947, it was known as the War Office Seal. The Army Institute of Heraldry defines the Seal in this fashion:
In the center is a Roman cuirass below a vertical unsheathed sword, point up, the pommel resting on the neck opening of the cuirass and a Phrygian cap supported on the sword point, all between, on the right an esponton and, on the left a musket with fixed bayonet crossed in saltire behind the cuirass and passing under the sword guard. To the right of the cuirass and esponton is a flag of unidentified designs with cords and tassels, on a flagstaff with spearhead, above a cannon barrel, the muzzle end slanting upward behind the cuirass, in front of the drum, with two drumsticks and the fly end of the flag draped over the drumhead; below, but partly in front of the cannon barrel, is a pile of three cannon balls. To the left of the cuirass and musket is a national color of the Revolutionary War period, with cords and tassels, on a flagstaff with spearhead, similarly arranged above a mortar on a carriage, the mortar facing inward and in front of the lower portion of the color and obscuring the lower part of it; below the mortar are two bomb shells placed side by side. Centered above the Phrygian cap is a rattlesnake holding in its mouth a scroll inscribed "This We'll Defend." Centered below the cuirass are the Roman numerals "MDCCLXXVIII."
(Source)
SYMBOLS THROUGHOUT THE SEAL
In the quote above, the Army Institute describes a “Roman cuirass”, which is a chest plate traditionally made of strong metal plates strapped together, and they were used as early as the Roman era, but more so in the mid-1800s. This is the central component of the seal, which is supposed to represent the strength and defense of the Army. The armor was a typical dress in the early Army times. On the neck opening of the cuirass, there is a sword and a Phrygian cap on the tip of it, with a snake and a banner that reads “This We’ll Defend”. The Phrygian cap is a conical-shaped cap with a small droop at the top. It is supposed to represent freedom. The symbolic purposes of it were expressed as early as the second century (AD). The sword represents strength, and swords were used as secondary weapons. “This We’ll Defend” is the motto of the Army. In the Army Institute quote, they reference weapons such as a mortar, a musket, a cannon, three cannon balls, and two bombshells (a cannonball without gunpowder). At the time the War Office Seal was created, these weapons were basic implements, or tools, of the Army. Muskets were primary weapons for infantrymen and remained primary from 1775 to 1833. The flags on the Seal include a Stars and Stripes flag and a “…flag of unidentified designs with cords and tassels…”, according to the Army Institute description. The Roman numerals “MDCCLXXVIII” (1778) represent the time in which the seal was created.
THE WAR OFFICE SEAL HISTORY
When the War Office Seal was created, it was originally used to validate official documents of the Army. The words on the seal, “War Office”, remained until 1947 when the phrase was changed to “Department of the Army”. Today, it is displayed on the United States Army Flag with minor adaptions and changes (such as removing the Roman numerals).
STREAMERS AND THE ARMY FLAG
Campaign streamers were first used during the American Civil War for the Army. The Army has streamers for each military campaign carried out. Before the Army Flag was created, soldiers on the battlefield flew streamers from long wooden poles displaying each campaign the regiment fought. After the adoption of the Army flag, streamers were then flown with the flag instead of poles. According to the book American Military History, as of 2003, the flag displays 175 streamers. More information regarding the streamers can be found here.
In conclusion, the United States Army Flag was a flag created for show during ceremonies, as the Army was the only branch of the U.S. Military that did not have a flag to present. Our beautiful handcrafted United States Army flag is a great addition to any home, whether you support the Army or serve. You can purchase an amazing 3D rendition here.
]]>
The “Join, or Die” illustration was first published in 1754 by Benjamin Franklin as a political cartoon for the Pennsylvania Gazette, an early American newspaper. The cartoon is a representation of all of the British Colonies in a cut-up segmented rattlesnake, which Franklin described as “the present disunited state of the British Colonies.”
]]>The “Join, or Die” illustration. (Source)
The letters next to the snake are abbreviations of each colony in geographical order, running south to north (South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, New England). Because of this, it can actually be viewed as a map of some sorts. Georgia and Delaware are not portrayed on it, and the New England colonies are listed together rather than having their separate segments. Originally, the cartoon was created as a woodcut, which is an illustration carved on a piece of wood.
PURPOSE OF THE FLAG
Ben Franklin’s goal was to unite the colonies during the French and Indian war, which lasted seven years. When Franklin published the woodcut, it became the first political cartoon. It was based on a superstition, being that if a snake was cut in two and the pieces were put together before sunset, the snake would return to life. (Source) The cartoon was recognized for its meaning and many newspapers reprinted the cartoon throughout the colonies.
Franklin expressed in his editorial that the colonies would become stronger if they were united. As Franklin wrote, “The Confidence of the French in this Undertaking seems well-grounded on the present disunited State of the British Colonies, and the extreme Difficulty of bringing so many different Governments and Assemblies to agree in any speedy and effectual Measures for our common defense and Security; while our Enemies have the very great Advantage of being under one. Direction, with one Council, and one Purse…” (Source) The text that Franklin wrote explains that the colonies, without unity, would be extremely challenged with so many different governments, laws, and assemblies. A union was deemed necessary.
AMERICAN REVOLUTION
Even though the cartoon was published long before the American Revolution, it certainly did not lose its popularity. Prior to the Declaration of Independence, the illustration was recycled as a banner promoting independence from Britain. Many newspapers throughout the colonies reprinted the illustration which promoted the unification of the colonies to create a stronger force against the British Rule.
In a way, the cartoon had two very different meanings between the British and the Colonists. Patriots viewed it as a symbol for unity and a way to be one independent country. The British Loyalists saw it as a sign of disrespect and a sly, cunning way to become independent from the British Empire. In 1774, Paul Revere fitted the cartoon to the front of the Massachusetts Spy newspaper in order to display a unity against the British Empire.
The cartoon was refitted in the top of the newspaper, seen attacking a British Dragon. (Source)
The dragon illustrated in the top of the newspaper was being attacked by the same snake used for the “Join, or Die” cartoon. Instead of being split apart, the snake was now drawn as one piece, or one whole union of colonies. In addition, the snake had a “G” at the bottom of it, representing Georgia while the abbreviation for the New England colonies still remained instead of individual colony labels.
LEGACY OF THE CARTOON
After the American Revolution, the flag was still used and repurposed. In fact, the usage of snakes in certain American flags (such as the Gadsden or the First Navy Jack) were inspired by the “Join, Or Die” illustration.
Overall, the “Join, or Die” political cartoon played a major role in uniting the Colonies to a Union.
To continue the amazing legacy of Ben Franklin’s “Join, or Die” cartoon, order a beautiful handcrafted “Join, or Die” wooden flag from us.
]]>
One hundred years after after the birth of the United States, Colorado joined as the 38th state, earning a nickname in the process: the Centennial State.
But while Colorado joined the Union in 1876, the Colorado flag we know today didn’t make an appearance until 1911, a full 35 years later. That flag, however, has represented Colorado ever since.
Over time, the Colorado flag became one of our nation’s most well-loved state flags. Its simple, recognizable design and distinct appearance have won it a place in many hearts. To understand more about the Colorado flag and why it’s one of our nation’s favorites, we investigated the history of the state it represents, its meaning and symbolism, and the life it’s had since its creation.
]]>But while Colorado joined the Union in 1876, the Colorado flag we know today didn’t make an appearance until 1911, a full 35 years later. That flag, however, has represented Colorado ever since.
Over time, the Colorado flag became one of our nation’s most well-loved state flags. Its simple, recognizable design and distinct appearance have won it a place in many hearts. To understand more about the Colorado flag and why it’s one of our nation’s favorites, we investigated the history of the state it represents, its meaning and symbolism, and the life it’s had since its creation.
See more photos of our vintage Colorado wood flag >>
Before we get to the state flag, let’s take a look into Colorado’s statehood itself—after all, for a state flag to exist, there must be a state for it to represent.
Here’s how Colorado came to be, as well as the story behind each of the flags that flew over its land prior to the introduction of the current state flag.
The United States acquired Colorado’s land over time. Parts of it were included in both the Louisiana Purchase and the 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe, with the remainder coming in 1850, when the US government purchased Texas’ claims to the remaining land.
Like many other states, it wasn’t long before Colorado’s mineral-rich land began attracting miners and settlers. The discovery of gold drew prospectors to towns like Denver City, Auraria, and Montana City—strategically placed camps that provided access to the best mining locations.
This surge in gold-seekers spurred the famous “Pikes Peak or Bust” slogan. In 1859, large gold-lode strikes were made, attracting even more prospectors and growing the settlements’ population in a short period of time.
At this point, the settlers decided it was time to take control. They established the Jefferson Territory without government sanction for the sole purpose of governing the gold camps, electing officers and establishing structure. By 1860, they even operated Miners’ and People’s Courts.
This all changed in 1861, when the Territory of Colorado was organized under President James Buchanan. William Gilpin was appointed the first governor, and a few months later, a Supreme Court selected delegates. At this point, the territory’s population had surpassed 25,000 inhabitants and continued to grow, now as an official territory.
Calls for statehood began after the Civil War, but for more than 10 years, progress stalled: first when vetoed by President Andrew Johnson, then again when Congress did not act after President Ulysses S. Grant advocated for statehood.
It wasn’t until 1875 that Colorado’s time arrived. The territory’s population had grown to more than 100,000, and railroads ran to major cities. Statehood was the natural next step.
A 39-member Constitutional Convention convened on December 20, 1875, and began writing a new new state constitution modeled after the US government’s. It was written in 87 days, and today’s version very closely resembles the original.
On August 1, 1876, President Grant declared Colorado the 38th state, completing the territory’s route to statehood.
Colorado state’s boundaries are the same as those of the original territory. Unlike the majority of other states, geographical features weren’t used to create boundary lines. Instead, the federal government carved out a rectangle—making it one of only two states (the other being Wyoming) to have such a rectangular shape.
Colorado gets its name from the Colorado River, the largest river in the region. Early Spanish explorers gave this river the name “Colorado”—Spanish for “colored red”—after they saw how the rock formations near the river and the mountain silt made the water look red.
When Colorado became a territory, people believed that this colorful river originated within its bounds, making “Colorado” the perfect name.
But as it turns out, the Colorado River’s actual headwaters were found near Moab, Utah. The section that continued into Colorado had another name: the Grand River. For years, the state was named after a river that didn’t even originate within its boundaries.
This changed in 1921, when Colorado congressman Edward T. Taylor brought forth a bill that would change the name of the Grand to Colorado, and thus extend the Colorado River into its namesake state.
Despite some opposition, Taylor’s efforts were successful, and the Grand River was renamed the Colorado. (Source)
The Colorado River didn’t just lead to a state name. Later on, we’ll see how it became a source of inspiration and symbolism for the Colorado flag.
Before the Colorado flag’s adoption in 1911, more than 10 flags flew over the land. These flags included:
(Source)
But beyond all of these flags, Colorado also had a state banner before the current flag came to be. For nearly five years, this simple Colorado flag served as a precursor to today’s design.
Yes, there was an official state flag before the current Colorado flag, but there wasn’t much to it.
Adopted In 1907, this simple flag was nothing more than the Colorado state seal on a blue background. Here’s the official act creating this flag, found in Colorado’s archives:
“AN ACT TO CREATE A STATE BANNER FOR THE STATE OF COLORADO.
Be it Enacted by the General Assembly of the State of Colorado:
That a state banner be and the same is hereby adopted to be used on all occasions when the state is officially and publicly represented. Said banner shall consist of the state coat of arms upon a dark blue ground. Penalties for misuse of the national flag now in force in this state shall be applicable to the said state banner.
Approved April 9th 1907.”
(Source)
This is what the 1907 Colorado flag looked like:
While certainly less visually appealing than the current design, this flag represented Colorado for four years.
For the curious, here’s the portion of the 1911 act that repealed the 1907 state flag:
“That an act entitled ‘An Act to Create a State Banner for the State of Colorado,’ approved April 9, 1907, and all other acts or parts of acts in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.”
(Source)
A straightforward end for a straightforward flag!
Colorado’s current flag was designed by Andrew Carlisle Johnson. There’s not much information on Johnson, beyond that it was his original design that became official in 1911.
What we do know, however, is that Johnson’s legacy lives on in this flag. His design captures the spirit of Colorado, perhaps in part because of the symbolism he imbued it with.
See more photos of our Colorado wood flag >>
The colors of the Colorado flag are at the forefront of its symbolism. They capture the essence of various geographical features native to Colorado—features that make it stand out from other states, features that drew the first settlers to the area. Features that make Colorado, Colorado.
Red: for the color of Colorado’s soil
Besides inspiring early Spanish explorers to name the river they found the “Rio Colorado,” the red soil found in much of Colorado is symbolized in the state’s flag.
Blue: for Colorado’s clear sky
Blue symbolizes sky in many flags, including Colorado’s. The vibrant sky on a clear day is something of beauty.
White: for Colorado’s majestic, snow-capped mountains
Colorado’s mountains inspired then and continue to inspire today. Home to more than 50 fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet in elevation), Colorado has been known for its peaks for years. The sheer size, number, and beauty of these mountains makes their symbolic inclusion in the flag a must.
Coloradans have been skiing since the late 1880s, and winter sports enthusiasts from around the world continue to visit Colorado for the high terrain and powder snow. It’s no wonder that white was chosen for the flag!
Gold: for Colorado’s abundant sunshine
Colorado is known for its abundant sunshine. While debatable, it’s long been held that Coloradans experience more than 300 sunny days each year—that’s more sunny days than both Miami Beach and San Diego.
(Source)
Besides the symbolism found in its four colors, the Colorado flag has two other pieces of symbolism. First, the “C”—an on-the-nose nod to the state name.
Second is something a bit more obscure. The state statute specifies that a cord of intertwined gold and silver tassels should accompany the flag. This could very well reference the gold and silver that drew the original settlers to Colorado in search of fortune.
Colorado’s flag is loved by many—we know that. But how does its design stack up when compared to other flags?
Pretty good, as it turns out. Colorado’s flag placed 16th out of 72 flags in the Great NAVA Survey of 2001. (NAVA, or the North American Vexillological Association, is a membership organization for Americans and Canadians interested in the scholarly study of flags.)
Besides 16th best overall, Colorado was rated the 11th-best state flag in this survey, which included flags from both the US and Canada.
The Colorado flag has remained largely unchanged since it was first adopted in 1911.
But since the original act established the flag, two additional statutes regarding the flag have passed. Neither of these have changed the core essence of the Colorado flag, rather, they’ve laid out specifications for different design elements to make the flag more consistent.
Why? For a long time, there were no official specifications for many of the flag’s design elements, which led to different design variants. The two statutes addressed this issue by providing more clear instructions for what the Colorado flag should look like.
Statute 1, in 1929: Color specifications for the Colorado flag
On February 28, 1929, the General Assembly stipulated the precise colors of red and blue to be the same as those from the national flag. Here’s an excerpt from the revision:
“. . . the two outer stripes to be blue of the same color as in the blue field of the national flag and the middle stripe to be white.”
(Source)
Statute 2, in 1964: Further instructions for the “C”
Controversy again arose over the size of the letter C, and on March 31, 1964, the General Assembly further modified the 1911 legislation by revising the distance from the staff for the letter C, as well as its diameter. Here’s the relevant excerpt:
“At a distance from the staff end of the flag of one thirty sixth FIFTH of the total length of the flag there shall be a circular red C, of the same color as the red in the national flag of the United States. The diameter of the letter SHALL BE one sixth TWO-THIRDS of the width of the flag.”
(Source)
Besides these two statues, there hasn’t been much controversy or change with Colorado’s flag since its creation.
It’s pretty amazing that a design from more than 100 years ago is so popular today, used on everything from T-shirts to mugs to wall art.
With adjustments from the above statutes in mind, here are the current specifications for Colorado’s flag:
More information about the specifications can be found here.
We make high-quality wooden flags that are built to last, and our Vintage Colorado Wood Flag is one of our favorites. Here are some photos of this flag:
Check out our Vintage Colorado Wood Flag, and add a bit of Colorado history to your home today!
]]>
America’s patriotic integrity is being called into question. In recent news, both the Gadsden Flag and the Pledge of Allegiance, two bold expressions of freedom and independence for the American people, have been opposed, bringing attention to unjustified racial resentment.
]]>America’s patriotic integrity is being called into question. In recent news, both the Gadsden Flag and the Pledge of Allegiance, two bold expressions of freedom and independence for the American people, have been opposed, bringing attention to unjustified racial resentment.
Likely, you have been reading news stories about how wearing the Gadsden Flag could be punishable harassment or how Colin Kaepernick didn’t stand during the national anthem. Instead, here’s the real story you need to be reading.
In the fall of 1775, the British were occupying Boston and the young Continental Army was holed up in Cambridge, lacking the necessary supplies to last through the season. Welcome to the Battle of Bunker Hill. It was here that Washington's troops—the young continental army—had been so low on gunpowder that they were ordered "not to fire until you see the whites of their eyes."
Soon enough, a merchant ship was returning to Philadelphia from a voyage to England. On board were private letters to the Second Continental Congress that informed Washington’s troops that the British government was sending two ships their way loaded with arms and gunpowder. An opportunity to capture supplies that they couldn’t afford not to capitalize on.
A plan was hatched by Washington and the Second Continental Congress to capture the cargo ships. To do so, they quickly authorized the creation of a Continental Navy, starting with four ships, including the merchant ship that carried the information from England.
To accompany the Navy on their first mission, Congress also authorized the mustering of five companies of Marines. Some of the Marines that enlisted that month in Philadelphia were carrying drums painted yellow, emblazoned with a fierce rattlesnake, coiled and ready to strike, with thirteen rattles, and sporting the motto "Don't Tread on Me."
That motto became part of the Gadsden flag—the same symbol that, 242 years later, is now being considered racist.
One of the roles of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is to attend to hostile work environment claims brought against federal agencies. In a recent case, there was a formal complaint against a federal Agency where the complaint alleged that the Agency subjected him to discrimination on the basis of race (African American). According to the complaint, in the fall of 2013, a coworker repeatedly wore a cap to work with an insignia of the Gadsden Flag. Complainant stated that he found the cap to be racially offensive to African Americans because the flag was designed by Christopher Gadsden, a “slave trader & owner of slaves.”
Complainant backed-up his claim stating that the Gadsden Flag is a “historical indicator of white resentment against blacks stemming largely from the Tea Party.” He also noted that the Vice President of the International Association of Black Professional Firefighters cited the Gadsden Flag as the equivalent of the Confederate Battle Flag when he successfully had it removed from a New Haven, Connecticut, fire department flagpole.
While the EEOC reviewed the record, they came to a conclusion that the Gadsden Flag originated in the Revolutionary War in a non-racial context. Though the Gadsden flag has, at times, been used to communicate racial messages. Such as when, in June 2014, assailants with connections to white supremacist groups draped the bodies of two murdered police officers with the Gadsden flag during their shooting spree.
Sadly, this isn’t the first time that a flag has been considered racist. In 2012, the EEOC ruled that co-workers wearing Confederate flag T-shirts can be subject to punishable harassment. Though it’s an interesting case, we’ll save the details for another time.
To get a clearer picture of what the Gadsden Flag symbol was actually intended for, let’s take a brief look at the history of the flag, and it’s maker, Christopher Gadsden.
Christopher Gadsden was an American patriot. He led Sons of Liberty in South Carolina starting in 1765, and was later made a colonel in the Continental Army. In 1775, he was in Philadelphia representing his home state in the Continental Congress. He was also one of three members of the Marine Committee.
It’s no secret that Gadsden made his money as a merchant in South Carolina, and both owned and sold slaves. For context into the time period, his fellow American patriot, and slave owner, Benjamin Franklin, actually helped him design the American rattlesnake symbol used on the Gadsden flag.
Gadsden, who was often called “the Sam Adams of the South,” was delegate to the Stamp Act Congress, delegate to the First and Second Continental Congresses, and commander of the 1st South Carolina Regiment of the Continental Army. Both he and Franklin were staunch American patriots.
Gadsden presented a copy of his flag to his state legislature in Charleston. As recorded in the South Carolina congressional journals:
"Col. Gadsden presented to the Congress an elegant standard, such as is to be used by the commander in chief of the American navy; being a yellow field, with a lively representation of a rattle-snake in the middle, in the attitude of going to strike, and these words underneath, "Don't Tread on Me!"
The Gadsden Flag was intentionally designed not to convey a racist message, but a patriotic one. Here are a few notes on the flag’s symbolism, written by his friend and colleague, Ben Franklin.
We live in a dangerous time. U.S. history is being rewritten and forever changed. Our flags intended for patriotic cheer—like the Gadsden Flag—are being considered racist. Where does the madness end?
]]>1. It’s illegal to burn the American Flag.
False. Burning the American Flag is a type of flag desecration (the act of publically, intentionally destroying, damaging, or mutilating the American flag), but it’s not illegal.
For many years, it was illegal to burn or desecrate the American flag, but on June 11, 1990, the Supreme Court declared that laws against desecrating the flag were unconstitutional. The First Amendment states it's unconstitutional for a government (whether federal, state, or local) to prohibit the desecration of a flag because it's seen as "symbolic speech."
Typically, when a flag is so worn it is no longer fit to serve as a symbol of our country, it should be destroyed by burning in a dignified manner. Most American Legion Posts regularly conduct a dignified flag burning ceremony, often on Flag Day, June 14th.
2. Betsy Ross made the first American Flag.
Today, while tourists enjoy the $5 tour and gift shop at the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia, many aren't aware of the lack of historical evidence for the classic story they know so well. The truth is that many regard Betsy Ross’ role in making the first American flag as nothing more than a myth.
While some believe that the story behind the Betsy Ross Flag is true, others say that the story didn’t appear until her grandson, William Canby popularized the legend in the late 1800s. To get the full legend, read our article The Betsy Ross Controversy: What Everybody Ought to Know.
3. The pledge of allegiance has always been recited in congress.
False. Congress has only been reciting the pledge of allegiance in the House for 25 years. They only first began doing it sparsely for political reasons, during the Bush–Dukakis presidential campaign in 1988.
The pledge was originally written by Colonel George Balch in 1887 and revised by ordained Baptist minister, Francis Bellamy in 1892. On October 21, 1892, Bellamy heard the pledge for the first time during the Columbus Day ceremony when "4,000 high school boys in Boston roared it out together." Congress formally adopted the pledge in 1942, but it wasn’t until 1995 when Congress started opening its daily session with the pledge. And the Senate has only been reciting it since 1999.
4. An interment flag cannot be flown.
False. The American Flag Code does not suggest that the flag should be discarded. In fact, it would be a very honorable tribute to the memory of a deceased veteran and his or her service if the casket flag is proudly displayed.
Typically, the burial flag is not suitable for outside display because of its unique size and fabric. It is made of cotton and can easily be damaged by weather. So more often than not, a interment flag is not flown because of practical reasons, not legal.
According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, a United States flag is provided, at no cost, to drape the casket or accompany the urn of a deceased Veteran who served honorably in the U. S. Armed Forces. It is furnished to honor the memory of a Veteran’s military service to his or her country. After the ceremony, the flag is typically given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. For those VA national cemeteries with an Avenue of Flags, families of Veterans buried in these national cemeteries may donate the burial flags of their loved ones to be flown on patriotic holidays.
5. You must destroy the flag when it touches the ground.
False. The Flag Code states "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." As long as the flag remains suitable for display, the flag may continue to be displayed as a symbol of our great country.
The American Legion dispels the myth in this way: Care should be exercised in the handling of the flag, to protect it from becoming soiled or damaged. However, you are not required to destroy the flag if it touches the ground. As long as the flag remains suitable for display, even if washing or dry-cleaning (which is an acceptable practice) is required, the flag may continue to be displayed.
Display your patriotic spirit.
Show your support of our great nation every day with a Patriot Wood American Flag. Each wood flag we produce is replicated to match the flag's true colors and dimensions. The grain of the wood, the boldness of the colors and the raised elements that are featured in our flags will provide a conversation piece that all your friends will rave about.
Browse all our wood flags, or take a look at our unique Stars & Stripes Wood Flags, today!
]]>Without peeking below, how large do you think the world’s largest American Flag is? 50-feet wide? 100-feet wide? Bigger? Keep reading to learn more about the world’s largest American flags, and how you can get one of your own.
]]>NOTE: After this article was published, a larger free flying flag measuring 60 x 120 feet is now on display in Sheboyhan, WI.
Without peeking below, how large do you think the world’s largest American Flag is? 50-feet wide? 100-feet wide? Bigger? Keep reading to learn more about the world’s largest American flags, and how you can get one of your own.
The world's largest American flag
Meet the Superflag. Measuring 505 feet wide by 225 feet tall, weighing approximately 3,000 pounds, and costing about $80,000, the Superflag set the Guinness world record for the World’s largest American flag.
Ski Demski, the flag’s maker, had the first Superflag made of cloth and sewn together in Pennsylvania and delivered to him on Flag Day in 1992. In 1996, a version of the super flag was hung on cables across the Hoover Dam to mark the Olympic torch relay. It took over 500 people to unfurl. According to Demski, "It wasn't easy.” Winds ripped it in three places during that outing, including one 90-foot gash. The repairs, made by a Huntington Beach sail and boat cover company, cost Demski $5,000.
Since, versions of the Superflag have been flown at the Super Bowl and the World Series (shown above). In fact, the flag’s website states, “If you have seen a giant sized American flag chances are it was a Superflag!”
The world’s largest free-flying American flag
Bridging the gap between New York and New Jersey, Fort Lee hosts the world’s largest free-flying American flag. The 450-pound nylon banner is over 60 feet long and 90 feet wide. Each stripe measures about five feet wide and each star is about four feet in diameter.
The flag is unfurled on George Washington Bridge for eight national holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veterans Day. According to an article on NJ.com, it takes about 30 minutes for Port Authority workers to remove the flag from its container inside the tower.
When the flag is flying, the best viewing points are from The Lemoine Avenue overpass in Fort Lee and the north area outlook of Fort Lee Historical Park on Hudson Terrace. Or, you could take a drive over the bridge while it’s flying.
The World’s Largest American Vintage Wood Flag
Meet the Patriot Wood American Vintage 8-Foot Wood Flag. The first of its kind, this flag comes in four 50x24" vertical pieces which will display side by side. Whether in your home or office, it’s a piece you’re friends will certainly rave about.
Massive is an understatement. Tremendous doesn't cut it. Awesome just feels just silly. This wood flag is more than just a decoration, it's a work of art. It's a monumental piece that only the true American can appreciate.
Order your American Vintage 8-Foot Wood Flag, today. →
]]>
Here’s our objective list of the five ugliest sub national and territorial flags of the U.S. and Canada.
]]>In 2001, the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA) asked visitors of its website to give their opinion on 72 sub national and territorial flags of the United States and Canada. 100 NAVA members and over 300 non-members ranked the 72 flags on a scale of 0 to 10 (worst to best).
You’ll notice that all of the flags below have two things in common: a blue background and a complex seal. After their survey NAVA stated that about half of U.S. states used blue fields and complex seals, making it difficult to distinguish many flags between each other.
Thus, here’s our objective list of the five ugliest sub national and territorial flags of the U.S. and Canada.
5. South Dakota
South Dakota designed their current and previous flag designs on the area’s common weather pattern: sun and light blue skies. Though only the fifth ugliest U.S. flag, it has been harshly criticized for an unnecessary repetition of the state name on both the outside and inside the seal. South Dakota’s original flag of 1909 was much more simple, consisting of a dominant yellow sun encircled by the text "South Dakota" and "The Sunshine State." South Dakota would have kept that design, they would have ranked much better in the NAVA survey.
4. Kansas
The flag of the state of Kansas was adopted in 1927. The elements of the state flag include the state seal and a sunflower. This original design was modified in 1961 to add the name of the state at the bottom of the flag.
Take a look at our 3D, reclaimed wood version of the Kansas Flag. It’d look great (or ugly) in your home. Interested? Learn more!
3. Montana
Voted the third ugliest U.S. state flag, the flag of Montana seal features a plow, shovel, and pickaxe in a field in front of the Great Falls of the Missouri River. The ribbon near the bottom of the ensign contains the state motto, "Oro y plata," which is Spanish for "Gold and silver." This version has been in use since 1905. The only difference between the current version and the previous version is the word, “Montana.”
2. Nebraska
The current design was adopted in 1925. And though an official designation of the state flag occurred in 1963, Nebraska was still one of the last states to adopt an official flag.
Even though the Nebraska Legislature's Government, Military, and Veterans Affairs Committee discussed a bill in 2002 that would have allowed a redesign, the flag was never updated making it the second ugliest U.S. state flag.
1. Georgia
There you have it! The ugliest U.S. state flag goes to Georgia. Since they were established in 1854, the state flag has been through eight design iterations. The edition above was in use from 2001 until 2003 when they adopted a completely new flag.
Here at Patriot Wood, we build a fantastic 3D rendition of newest Georgia flag that’s been in use since 2003. Don’t worry, it’s quite beautiful. Go ahead and take a look!
]]>
What do you know about the California State flag? You may know that that there’s an entire clothing brand whose products prominently feature the state flag called California Republic Clothes, or that the flag’s design famously features a brown bear and a red star. But you probably didn’t know that the bear has a name.
]]>What do you know about the California State flag? You may know that that there’s an entire clothing brand whose products prominently feature the state flag called California Republic Clothes, or that the flag’s design famously features a brown bear and a red star. But you probably didn’t know that the bear has a name.
Here are five fascinating facts about the California State Flag that every Californian should know.
1. The design was inspired by Mexican revolt
In 1846, California was still part of Mexico. An uprising against Mexican rule began in June of the that year. During this first revolt, rebels were able to seize Monterey just south of San Francisco and declared California "a free and sovereign state". The rebellion, which lasted for a month, failed to secure independence for California, but it did inspire the design of The Bear Flag.
2. The California flag is also known as The Bear Flag
The original Grizzly Bear Flag was named and designed in anticipation of ending oppressive Mexican rule over the Free and Sovereign State of California. In June 1846 in Sonoma, California, The Bear Flag was flown for the first time by men who quickly became known as the “Bear Flaggers,” named for their role during the Bear Flag Revolt in Sonoma. The Bear Flag was flown for one month in the revolt against Mexico, before being replaced by the national stars and stripes flag. It wouldn’t be until 1911 that the grizzly bear design would be adopted as a part of the official California state flag.
3. The bear’s name is Monarch
During the California-Mexico revolt, California had the idea to, “Put an emblem on the flag that would scare the Mexican authorities, that these people were serious," said William Trinkle, founder of the Bear Flag Museum. And apparently that emblem was a bear. “You couldn't ride on a horse for a mile without seeing ten grizzly bears,” said Trinkle.
In the early to mid 1800s, Grizzly bears were extremely common in the state of California. Now, not so much. The brown grizzly is actually extinct to California. The bear flag flew for just under a month, and once the settlers found out the U.S. had declared war with Mexico, they swapped out the bear flag for the stars and stripes. But the Californians’ fascination with the grizzly bear continued. A southern California news website told the story this way:
But in 1889, an up-and-coming newspaper mogul decided to bring the bear back into the spotlight. William Randolph Hearst, in one his very first publicity stunts, wanted to bring a live California Grizzly Bear to San Francisco.
Once he had the bear, it was time for the glamour. Hearst put the bear on display in Golden Gate Park and named him Monarch.
There you have it! The bear’s name is Monarch. Sadly, Monarch died in 1911 and his skeleton was taken to the Berkeley Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, his pelt stuffed and put on display at the California Academy of Sciences. That same year, though, California finally adopted a state flag, which included a grizzly bear modeled after Monarch.
Currently, the stuffed version of Monarch is mounted and preserved at the Academy of Sciences at Golden Gate Park.
4. The red star was inspired by Texas
While Monarch the California Grizzly is a symbol of great strength, the star on the flag began in the 1836 California Lone Star Flag, representing freedom, according to the California Military Department.
5. NAVA ranked California flag 13th most beautiful
In 2001, the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA) surveyed its members on the designs of the 72 U.S. state, U.S. territorial, and Canadian provincial flags and ranked the flag of California #13th.
In 2014, Thrillist, a popular online publication ranked the California State Flag #8 most beautiful state flag, stating that it’s a “top 10 status on any flag list.”
Make it yours
When you make a Patriot Wood California Wood Flag part of your home, you’ll provide a conversation piece that all your friends will rave about.
Unlike most California Wood Flags makers, we use raised elements for the bear and star, which provided a distinctive visual. Rich and beautiful brown paint was used for the lettering "CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC" yet for the bear, we decided to stain the wood with a dark walnut shade. This beautifully brought out the grain of the cedar wood giving the flag a clearly unique look.
“The flag is fantastic! Looks great on my wall.” –Alexander, Menlo Park, CA
We currently offer three different sizes of the flag. To purchase, visit the California Wood Flag product page.
]]>Adding a vinyl or wool American Flag tapestry in your home will give it a vintage, patriotic look. But why decorate with a fabric american flag when you can hang a hand-crafted, reclaimed vintage wood flag that your friends will rave about? At Patriot Wood, we take our nation’s history—and the decoration of your home—seriously.
]]>Adding a vinyl or wool American Flag tapestry in your home will give it a vintage, patriotic look. But why decorate with a fabric american flag when you can hang a hand-crafted, reclaimed vintage wood flag that your friends will rave about? At Patriot Wood, we take our nation’s history—and the decoration of your home—seriously.
Each of our wood flags has a unique weathered, vintage look. They have been made by our master craftsman, Art Pinney, to appear aged and antiqued with raised elements providing a 3D look-and-feel—carefully replicated to match the flag's true colors and dimensions.
The grain of the wood, the boldness of the colors, and the raised elements of these five Patriot Wood vintage american flags will make a beautiful addition to your home.
1. American Vintage Wood Flag
The national flag of the USA, often referred to as the American flag, consists of thirteen horizontal stripes of red alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton called the union, bearing 50 white stars. Each star represents a state while the 13 stripes represent the thirteen colonies that declared independence from Great Britain and became the first states in the Union. Nicknames for the flag include the "Stars and Stripes", "Old Glory", and "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Learn more about our American Vintage Wood Flag.
2. Bennington 1776 Vintage Wood Flag
Like many Revolutionary era flags, the Bennington flag features 13 stars and 13 stripes, symbolic of the 13 American colonies that were in a state of rebellion against England. A distinctive feature of the Bennington flag is the arrangement of the 13 stripes, with white being outermost instead of red. Also, the blue canton is higher by two stripes and incorporates a large '76' surrounded by 13 seven-pointed stars. Legend claims that during the Battle of Bennington, the original flag was carried off the field by Nathaniel Fillmore and passed down through the Fillmore family.
Learn more about our Bennington 1776 Vintage Wood Flag.
3. Thin Blue Line Vintage Wood Flag
The Thin Blue Line is a symbol used by law enforcement to commemorate fallen officers and to symbolize the relationship of the police in the community as the protectors of the citizenry from the criminal element. Each stripe on the emblem represents certain respective figures: the blue center line represents law enforcement, the top black stripe represents the public whilst the bottom represents the criminals.
Learn more about our Thin Blue Line Vintage Wood Flag.
4. Maryland Vintage Wood Flag
This uniquely designed and distinctively colored state flag was officially adopted by Maryland in 1904. The black and gold design on the flag is the coat of arms of George Calvert, first Baron Baltimore and Lord Baltimore. The red and white design is the coat of arms of the Crossland family, the family of Calvert's (Lord Baltimore's) mother, and features a cross bottony with the red and white sides of the cross alternating. It is one of only four U.S. state flags that does not contain the color blue.
Learn more about our Maryland Vintage Wood Flag.
5. Betsy Ross Vintage Wood Flag
The Betsy Ross flag was designed during the American Revolution and features 13 stars to represent the original 13 colonies. Many flags with 13 stars were made during the early years of America. The Flag Act of 1777, established the first congressional standard for official United States ensigns. The shape and arrangement of the stars is not mentioned—there were numerous variations—but the legal description gives the Betsy Ross flag legitimacy.
Learn more about our Betsy Ross Vintage Wood Flag.
Custom orders
Already have something in mind? It’s easy to make a custom order! If you have an idea, we’ll help you bring it to life. Get started with a custom order today!
]]>Meet SEAL Team 6: one of the United States’ secretive military operations. The New York Times has referred to as, “a global manhunting machine,” and “one of the nation’s most mythologized, most secretive and least scrutinized military organizations.”
]]>Every member of SEAL Team 6 (ST6) knows that they’re committed for life and chronic pain is part of the job. While combat is extremely dangerous, training is too. Members have been known to drown during training, and die during routine parachuting excursions.
Did you serve on Seal Team 6 or know someone who did? Learn about our Seal Team 6 Gold Squadron Wood Patch→
SEAL Team 6 was created in October 1980 for “no-fail” missions, often devoted exclusively to counter-terrorism. They’re most popular for the assassination of Osama bin Laden.
Richard Marcinko, the founder of ST6, was given a short six-months to get the program on the ground. At the time, there were already two SEAL teams, but Marcinko intentionally named his new unit “SEAL Team 6” in order to confuse Soviet intelligence as to the number of actual SEAL teams in existence. ST6 started with 75 shooters and an annual ammunition training allowance larger than that of the entire U.S. Marine Corps.
After competing for spots on a training team called the “Green Team,” elite operators from the regular SEAL teams are chosen for a ST6 assault squadron.
Each squadron has it’s own identity, or brand. Often the tattoos that you see on former navy SEALS reflect the identity of their squadron.
Additionally, each assault squadron is divided into color-coded line squadrons, operating under a lieutenant commander:
Once they’ve been assigned a squadron, ST6 assault troops undergo very intensive training sessions. For the brevity of this article, I’ll briefly outline four of the most common exercises known as kill house training, assault training, ship training, and HALO training.
Kill house training is exactly what it sounds like. ST6 operators are trained to enter buildings and kill enemy fighters inside.
Assault training is a comprehensive replication of a full assault mission. In this exercise, ST6 candidates perform an entire mission, including the planning, navigation and entry and exit strategies.
Ship training trains ST6 members how to attack a ship at sea. A combination of kill house training and assault training this exercise teaches ST6 candidates to approach an enemy ship on high-speed boats. They then climb aboard the moving ship and fight their way through the ship to rescue hostages, killing or capturing target enemies along the way.
HALO training (high altitude, low opening) is where ST6 members practice skydiving from very high altitudes, while opening their parachute dangerously close to the ground.
According to a New York Times article, the costliest day in ST6 history was Aug. 6, 2011, when a Chinook helicopter was shot down in Afghanistan, killing all 38 people on board, including 15 SEALs from Team 6’s Gold Squadron, two of the squadron’s bomb-disposal technicians, as well as regular SEALs, pilots and others.
Another New York Times article on the secret history of SEAL Team 6 quoted Britt Slabinski, a retired senior enlisted member of Team 6 and veteran of combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, saying, “War is not this pretty thing that the United States has come to believe it to be,” he said. “It’s emotional, one human being killing another human being for extended periods of time. It’s going to bring out the worst in you. It’s also going to bring out the best in you.”
More members of the unit have died over the past 14 years than in all its previous history. Repeated assaults, parachute jumps, rugged climbs and blasts from explosives have left many battered, physically and mentally.
Seal Team 6 was officially disbanded and renamed in 1987, though despite the official name changes, "SEAL Team Six" remains the unit's widely recognized moniker. Today, ST6 is known as the United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group, or DEVGRU, a U.S. Navy component of Joint Special Operations Command.
DEVGRU is classified, and details of its activities are not usually commented on by either the White House or the Department of Defense.
The official mission of DEVGRU is to test, evaluate, and develop technology and maritime, ground, and airborne tactics applicable to Naval Special Warfare forces such as Navy SEALs; however, it is presumed this is a small part of the group's work assignment and more of a cover. DEVGRU’s mission is classified, but it’s also assumed that they’re focused on efforts to prevent the spread of both conventional weapons and weapons of mass destruction.
William M. Arkin, author of a popular article on ST6, cites DEVGRU as a, “bureaucracy and a business…one where only the most limited issues of sources and methods demand such ridiculous secrecy.” Arkin believes ST6 is just another sub-element of a ridiculous number of secret American armies.
Here at Patriot Wood we not only believe in our nation, we believe in our military. Seal Team 6 is an integral part of our nation’s history, and for that, we are proud. In fact, we’re so proud that we created our own Seal Team 6 Gold Squadron Wood Patch. It’s quite large on purpose so you’ll have a conversation piece to rave about.
Did you serve on Seal Team 6 or know someone who did? Learn about our Seal Team 6 Gold Squadron Wood Patch →
]]>Show your support of our country by proudly flying your flag in 2016. If you have an American flag at home or at your business, it should be should be flown every day—especially on national holidays and state birthdays.
]]>“If anyone, then, asks me the meaning of our flag, I say to him - it means just what Concord and Lexington meant; what Bunker Hill meant; which was, in short, the rising up of a valiant young people against an old tyranny to establish the most momentous doctrine that the world had ever known - the right of men to their own selves and to their liberties. –Henry Ward Beecher
This quote from Henry Ward Beecher sums up the reason why Americans fly their flags many days each year. It’s their chance to show national pride and respect to those who’ve lost their lives defending America’s freedom and democracy.
It’s tradition that on certain days each year, you should fly the American flag at your business or home at full staff (at the summit of your pole) while other days it’s proper to fly at half-staff (below the summit of your pole, usually half way). This is because, when there has been a national tragedy, either on the day of the tragedy or in remembrance of a day in the past, you’ll fly your flag at half-staff.
For example, on Patriot Day, Memorial Day, Peace Officer’s Memorial Day, Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, the President of the United States has declared all flags be flown at half-staff. Most recently, on December 7, 2016, President Barack Obama declared all flags be flown at half-staff honoring the victims of the attack in San Bernardino, California.
Show your support of our country by proudly flying your flag in 2016. If you have an American flag at home or at your business, it should be should be flown every day—especially on the national holidays and state birthdays listed below.
And, now you don’t have to forget! Add the Holidays in the United States to your Google Calendar or iCal so that you’ll never miss a patriotic opportunity to raise your flag. Or, bookmark this article (Bookmark This Page) and reference the complete list of Holidays in the United States, and State Birthdays below.
The following dates are when our states became apart of the federal government. Fly your American and State flags on their anniversary into statehood and remember your heritage.
Show your support of our nation every day by hanging a high-quality, 3D, wood flag in your home or business. Each wood flag we produce is replicated to match the flag's true colors and dimensions. The grain of the wood, the boldness of the colors and the raised elements that are featured in our flags will provide a conversation piece that all your friends will rave about.
Our flags will make a beautiful addition to your home, and you’ll never see another quite like it.
Browse all our wood flags, or take a look at our unique Stars & Stripes Wood Flags and State & City Wood Flags.
]]>The United States Air Force (USAF) is a very large and diverse organization—one that requires special services to keep operations running properly so they can continue to maintain air superiority during combat.
]]>
The United States Air Force (USAF) is a very large and diverse organization—one that requires special services to keep operations running properly so they can continue to maintain air superiority during combat.
United States Air Force Security Forces are the force protection and military police of the United States Air Force. Security Forces, or SF, were formerly known as Military Police (MP), Air Police (AP), and Security Police (SP).
Want a wood version for your home or office? Buy our USAF Security Forces Wood Patch today! →
In early 1943, the first Army Aviation Military Police Companies were established from existing Army MP units. The USAF Security Forces lineage can be traced to its beginning in WWII with the German blitzkrieg. The National Security Act of 1947 established the current United States Department of Defense and formed the United States Air Force from the Army Air Forces as a separate service. MP units serving with the Army Air Corps before this separation were transferred to the Air Force.
One of the distinguishing items that makes the USAF Security Forces stand out among the rest is their use of the blue beret. To date, the U.S. Air Force only has its elite units wearing berets. Those units consist of Pararescue (maroon), Combat Control (scarlet), Combat Weather Jumpers (gray), Tactical Air Control Parties (black) and Security Forces (dark blue).
Their famous tagline, “defensor fortis,” is very fitting of their role and literally means, “strong defender.” It can also be translated to mean, “defenders of the force,” as that’s exactly what these brave men and women do every day—defend the force.
The Air Force Security Police Badge has existed since the early 1960s. The badge is worn in the center of the left shirt pocket of all Air Force uniforms (with the exception of the Mess Dress Uniform) and is the primary identification for officers and enlisted airmen of the Air Force Security Police. It is considered a symbol of legal authority and Force Protection on Air Force Installations and is awarded to all Security Forces (SF) members upon graduation from the Security Forces Academy (Tech school). Each badge is imprinted with a unique number that the Security Forces Member will wear their entire SF career.
Because the badge carries such a high degree of authority and responsibility for everyone who wears it, the Air Force initially feared that SP's could abuse the power that came with the shield. As a result, shields were issued to Squadron Commanders and were squadron property. Each shield was issued to on-duty Security Police at weapons issue and subsequently turned in after each shift of duty. As you can imagine, this only lasted for a period of time.
The badge was a metal shield, worn on both the dress uniform and the fatigues. When worn on the fatigue uniform, the shield was prone to damage from sustained abuse during duty. Therefore, the prized Air Force Security Police Badge appeared unpolished and unprofessional during everyday use.
By 1975, leadership knew a new solution was needed to preserve their pride. A short time after, a fabric patch was initiated on both the dress uniform and the fatigues, which as you might assume, was not easily removable. As such, the USAF Security Forces was forced to reinstate its policy of requiring all member to turn in their shields at the end of duty. To this day, Security Police Shields are personal property and are meant to be worn both on and off duty, on all uniforms.
Our Patriot Wood USAF Security Forces Wood Patch has raised elements providing a 3D look-and-feel. Each wooden flag we produce is replicated to match the patch’s true colors and dimensions. Plus, it’s hand-built to last a lifetime.
In a rave review, Krystle from Oregon, gave our USAF Security Forces Wood Patch 5-stars. “The detail of work is amazing. This looks exactly like the patch worn on berets today. Outstanding work,” she wrote.
Show your Air Force pride with a Patriot Wood USAF Security Forces Wood Patch today!
]]>The 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles") is a modular light infantry division of the United States Army trained for air assault operations. During World War II, it was renowned for its role in Operation Overlord.
]]>I’ll get right to the point. Without the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army, America would be a very different place.
The 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles") is a modular light infantry division of the United States Army trained for air assault operations. During World War II, it was renowned for its role in Operation Overlord (the D-Day landings and airborne landings on June 6, 1944, in Normandy, France), Operation Market Garden, the liberation of the Netherlands and, perhaps most famously, its action during the Battle of the Bulge around the city of Bastogne, Belgium.
General Order No. Five, which gave birth to the division, reads, "The 101st Airborne Division, activated at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana, has no history, but it has a rendezvous with destiny. Like the early American pioneers whose invincible courage was the foundation stone of this nation, we have broken with the past and its traditions in order to establish our claim to the future. Due to the nature of our armament, and the tactics in which we shall perfect ourselves, we shall be called upon to carry out operations of far-reaching military importance and we shall habitually go into action when the need is immediate and extreme. Let me call you attention to the fact that our badge is the great American eagle. This is a fitting emblem for a division that will crush its enemies by falling upon them like a thunderbolt from the skies. The history we shall make, the record of high achievement we hope to write in the annals of the American Army and the American people, depends wholly and completely on the men of this division. Each individual, each officer and each enlisted man, must, therefore, regard himself as a necessary part of a complex and powerful instrument for the overcoming of the enemies of the nation. Each, in his own job, must realize that he is not only a means, but an indispensable means for obtaining the goal of victory. It is, therefore, not too much to say that the future itself, in whose molding we expect to have our share, is in the hands of the soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division."
On August 19, 1942, the first commander, Maj. Gen. William C. Lee, promised this to his new recruits, and as a division, the 101st never failed that prophecy. According to Global Security.org, on June 5th, 1944, the 101st prepared for its first combat operation, the airborne invasion of Normandy.
The plan was that the 101st would drop 6,700 soldiers behind enemy lines to disrupt the Germans before the massive allied beach assault on the coast of Normandy. As soon as the planes carrying the soldiers of the 101st flew into France, they began receiving heavy antiaircraft fire from the Germans. The pilots took evasive action and broke formation to avoid being hit. As a result, soldiers jumped at an altitude of 300 feet at a speed of 200 mph instead of the planned 700 feet at 100 mph. This caused the Division to be scattered all over Normandy. Soldiers landed far from their units, behind enemy lines, and alone. Many were killed before they hit the ground by Germans firing into the sky.
By the end of the 1st day of the Normandy invasion, only 1 in 3 soldiers had found their unit. The scattered jump into Normandy confused the Germans just as much as it confused the Americans. The Germans did not know where to fight the Americans for there were no real front lines. Fighting consisted of small unit actions.
During the 2nd day of the invasion, the 101st began to regroup and receive resupplies by gliders, many of which crashed on landing. During the next 2 days of fighting the 101st took objectives behind Utah beach and turned south towards Carentan, which was key to controlling the peninsula. The Germans had been ordered to fight to the last man. After days of heavy fighting, the 101st took Carentan. The division held the town for 2 more days under a heavy German counter attack until reinforcements arrived.
One month after jumping into Europe, the 101st mission in Normandy was complete, 1 in 4 men had been killed or wounded.
But without the 101st Airborne Division, none of America’s soldiers would have made it out of alive. And that would have probably cost us the war.
Throughout the years, the 101st Airborne Division has run a number of other successful missions as well. Some include:
Did you serve with the 101st Airborne Division, or know someone who did? Savor the legacy of service by ordering one of our 101st Airborne Division Wood Patch.
If you or someone you know served our nation in another capacity, it’s never a better time to invest in a custom wood patch to cherish the memory. We can make almost any military shoulder sleeve insignia. Let us know via our custom orders page if you would like us to build a different patch for you.
You can also take a look at our collection of beautiful Military Wood Flags, or order your 101st Airborne Division Wood Patch today.
]]>I recently had the chance to visit the city for the first time, and growing up on the west coast, it was one of the most historic places I’d ever seen. If you’ve been there, you understand.
]]>
I recently had the chance to visit the city for the first time, and growing up on the west coast, it was one of the most historic places I’d ever seen. If you’ve been there, you understand. Each city block has one, if not multiple, historic properties, such as Independence Hall, the birthplace of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, Christ Church, where Colonial America made its break with the Church of England, and Elfreth’s Alley, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street.
One of these properties is The Betsy Ross House, what many regard as the birthplace of the American flag. Today, while tourists enjoy the $5 tour and novelties around the gift shop, many aren't aware of the lack of historical evidence for the classic story they know so well. The truth is that many regard Betsy Ross’ role in making the first American flag as nothing more than a myth.
The story goes that in June of 1776, Betsy Ross was a widow of three deceased husbands struggling to run her own upholstery business. One day, Robert Morris, the uncle of one of her deceased husbands (a man of wealth and integrity in Philadelphia who almost single-handedly saw to the financing of the Revolutionary War, and the establishment of the Bank of the United States), brought General Washington and Col. George Ross to her house to present a rough design of the flag. She immediately saw some defects: instead of being square, she felt that the flag should be one-third longer than its width, and instead of having the stars scattered promiscuously over the field, she said they should be either in lines or in some adopted form as a circle or a star, and instead of having six-pointed stars, she said they should be five pointed. Impressed, the committee entrusted Betsy with making the first American flag.
While some believe this story to be true, others say that this story didn’t appear until her grandson William Canby popularized the legend in the late 1800s. While the Betsy Ross flag is used to commemorate the nation’s birth, many believe that the Hopkinson Flag was the first version of the Stars and Stripes. Though no one can say for certain.
The clearest and most authoritative set of evidence regarding this story as fiction are the Affidavits of Rachel Fletcher, daughter of Betsy Ross, Sophia B. Hildebrant, granddaughter of Betsy Ross, and Margaret Donaldson Boggs, niece of Betsy Ross.
These documents were made public by the State of New York and the state of Philadelphia in 1871, 1870, and 1870, respectively. You can see them here.
On the other hand, Marc Leepson, author of the 2005 book, Flag: An American Biography, said during an interview, “As far as the big question is concerned—Did she make the first American flag?—every historical study has come to the same conclusion. There’s no good historical evidence that she did. But that doesn’t mean she didn’t. There’s simply a lack of documentation. Most historians believe the story is apocryphal.”
A bit more confident in 2011, Leepson’s Washington Post opinion piece about the American Flag, reads, “The Betsy Ross story is the most tenacious piece of fiction involving the flag. There simply is no credible historical evidence — letters, diaries, newspaper accounts, bills of sale — that Ross (then known as Elizabeth Claypoole) either made or had a hand in designing the American flag before it made its debut in 1777.”
Marc Leepson isn’t the only critic of The Betsy Ross Flag. There are numerous individuals and groups who’ve worked hard to prove the story a myth. On the other hand, The Flag Act of 1777, established the first congressional standard for official United States ensigns. The shape and arrangement of the stars is not mentioned, as there were numerous variations, but the legal description is one reason the Betsy Ross flag is given its legitimacy.
But nevertheless, while some historians still debate Betsy Ross’s involvement in the creation of the flag, the legend lives on, and the flag that was adopted in 1777 still lives on as a symbol of unity in a newly formed nation. The Betsy Ross Flag is a long-lasting piece of America’s history.
Legend or legacy, here at Patriot Wood, we wanted to showcase the incredible story behind The Betsy Ross Flag with our own Betsy Ross Wood Flag. This unique flag proudly features a circle of 13 stars to represent the original 13 colonies.
Due to popular demand, we’ve also added a Betsy Ross Vintage Wood Flag to the collection. As you can see, it appears aged as a natural way to date the history of the flag.
Similarly, if you’re a fan of the Betsy Ross flag, you probably know a little bit about the Bennington flag. Like many Revolutionary era flags, the Bennington flag features 13 stars and 13 stripes, symbolic of the 13 American colonies that were in a state of rebellion against England. A distinctive feature of the Bennington flag is the arrangement of the 13 stripes, with white being outermost instead of red. Also, the blue canton is higher by two stripes and incorporates a large '76' surrounded by 13 seven-pointed stars. Legend claims that during the Battle of Bennington, the original flag was carried off the field by Nathaniel Fillmore and passed down through the Fillmore family. Our Bennington 1776 Vintage Wood Flag has unique 3D raised elements that provides an incredible gift, or a conversation piece all your friends will rave about.
Legacy or legend, fact or myth, the Betsy Ross flag is a piece of American history we love. Our wood flags are a great way to celebrate that history. Give as a gift, or get for yourself, the story of the Betsy Ross Wood Flag is a fun way to savor America’s history.
]]>If you’ve been a Patriot Wood customer for long, you probably know that one of our most popular wood flags is the Blue Thin Line Wood Flag commemorating fallen law enforcement officers and symbolizing the relationship of law enforcement in the community as the protectors of civilians from criminal elements. What you may not know is that the Thin Blue Line emblem also gave birth to the the "Thin Red Line," which refers to the fire department. So, what does that mean for firefighters?
]]>If you’ve been a Patriot Wood customer for long, you probably know that one of our most popular wood flags is the Thin Blue Line Wood Flag commemorating fallen law enforcement officers and symbolizing the relationship of law enforcement in the community as the protectors of civilians from criminal elements. What you may not know is that the Thin Blue Line emblem also gave birth to the the "Thin Red Line," which refers to the fire department. So, what does that mean for firefighters?
At it’s essence, the Thin Red Line is a symbol used by fire departments to show respect for firefighters injured and killed in the line of duty.
Patriot Wood’s Thin Red Line Wood Flag integrates the prominent red stripe of the Thin Red Line emblem into a black-and-white version of the American flag for a beautiful and symbolic combination.
The term “thin red line” originated during the Crimean War when British Sutherland Highlanders 93rd Regiment, aided by a small force of Royal Marines and some Turkish infantrymen, routed a Russian cavalry charge at the Battle of Balaclava on October 25,1854.
The battle began with a Russian artillery and infantry attack on the Ottoman forts that formed Balaclava’s first line of defense. The Ottoman forces initially resisted the Russian assaults, but lacking support they were eventually forced to retreat. When the forts fell, the Russian cavalry moved to engage the second defensive line held by the Ottoman and the 93rd Highland Regiment. This line’s main function was to hold and repulse the attack. And they sure did.
On that day the 93rd Regiment earned the nickname "The Fighting Highlanders," and carried with it the status of having been the original "Thin Red Line". This impressive feat positioned the Allies (France, the United Kingdom, the Ottoman Empire, and Sardinia) to defeat the greater proportion of the cavalry advance, forcing the Russians onto the defensive.
A distant bystander and press writer for The Times, W. H. Russell, reported that nothing stood between the Russian cavalry and the defenceless British base but the "thin red streak tipped with a line of steel of the 93rd" a description immediately paraphrased and passed into folklore as "The Thin Red Line."
Since that day in October of 1854, the term “thin red line” stood as a common figure of speech for any thinly spread military unit holding firm against attack. You can see a clear illustration of what this looked like in Robert Gibb’s famous 1881 painting, The Thin Red Line.
Today, the term “Thin Red Line” is a symbol used by fire departments to show respect for firefighters injured and killed in the line of duty. As firefighters are periled, they place their lives second to those they protect. They are forced to face their own fears and grasp for every ounce of courage to perform the necessary task. “The Thin Red Line of Courage” represents the last ounce of courage firefighters find deep in their blood to conquer their darkest fears in order to save and protect life and property.
For firefighters, their friends, and family, The Thin Red Line Flag is full of meaning. One that we only know because of hundreds of years of blood, sweat, and tears. If you’d like to learn more about Patriot Wood’s wood version of the Thin Red Line Flag, check it out here!
]]>
Have you ever seen a black sticker, patch, or flag with a thin blue line horizontally stretched across?
If so, you’ve seen the monumental Thin Blue Line—a symbol used by law enforcement to commemorate fallen officers. Symbolic of the relationship between police and their community, the blue center line represents law enforcement, the top black stripe represents the public while the bottom represents the criminals.
]]>Have you ever seen a black sticker, patch, or flag with a thin blue line horizontally stretched across?
If so, you’ve seen the monumental Thin Blue Line—a symbol used by law enforcement to commemorate fallen officers. Symbolic of the relationship between police and their community, the blue center line represents law enforcement, the top black stripe represents the public while the bottom represents the criminals.
Just last week, Patriot Wood’s founder and chief craftsman, Art Pinney, and I were at lunch discussing a new product line. Not long after we started, his phone chimed as if he received a text message. Our conversation was put on hold for a moment while Art slid an iPhone from his pocket. After glancing at his phone, Art reported that he had received a new order for Patriot Wood’s most popular product, the Thin Blue Line Wood Flag.
In the wake of recent controversies over police shootings, the Patriot Wood Thin Blue Line Flag has become very popular among law enforcement personnel, their families and supporters. Honestly, the response to this flag has been greater than we ever imagined. But even more than that, its popularity has given us the chance to hear other people’s incredible stories.
The Thin Blue Line Wood Flag has shipped to officers across the country, including Ralph Friedman, the most-decorated NYPD cop in history, and Fort Lauderdale’s Captain Luis Alvarez (right in image above), who bought our first ever Thin Blue Line Wood Flag.
In a recent thankyou email to Art, Captain Alvarez said, “I wanted to thank you for your generosity and for also making such an impressive flag... Thanks for what you do.” We can’t help but respond to Captain Alvarez by saying, “Thank you for what you do.”
The term “Thin Blue Line” came into broad use after the release of Errol Morris' 1988 documentary film The Thin Blue Line, about the murder of a Dallas Police officer Robert W. Wood. But Wood’s story isn’t the only one. In 2013 alone, almost 50,000 police officers were assaulted on duty—76 of those killed.
The emblem doesn’t just represent fallen police officers. It also represents those who put their lives on the line every day and night because people like you and me need these men and women in blue. We need them to gear up so we can walk the streets during the day and sleep at night in peace.
Since launching our first Thin Blue Line Wood Flag, we’ve built several comparable versions per customer request. These include the Thin Blue Line Vintage Wood Flag and a Thin Red Line Wood Flag.
A few customers have requested the Thin Blue Line Wood Flag in the shape of a specific state. We’ve begun the process of building versions for each state—the first being Texas. The accuracy of the curves, the boldness of the colors, and the distinct 3D raised elements provide a stunning piece every time.
Take a look at this stunning North Carolina Thin Blue Line Flag that Art recently built:
Take this opportunity to send one of our handcrafted Thin Blue Line Wood Flags as a “thank you” to an officer who’s close to you. It will mean the world to them and will be a great honor for their service. The grain of the wood, boldness of colors and raised elements will provide a conversation piece that all their friends will admire.
Blue lives matter! Show your support and order your Thin Blue Line Flag today.
]]>November 11th is Veterans day, the 97th anniversary of the Armistice ending World War I, signed in the Forest of Compiegne by the Allies and the Germans in 1918. Help Patriot Wood say “thank you” to all veterans who have fought for the United States by sharing these 15 quote images to the veterans in your community.
]]>Today is Veterans day, the 97th anniversary of the Armistice ending World War I, signed in the Forest of Compiegne by the Allies and the Germans in 1918. After four grueling years of intense conflict, The Great War had finally ended. The soldiers who were still alive and standing packed up and headed home.
Looking for a gift? Save 10% with discount code MILITARY10 →
A year later, President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11, 1919, the first Armistice Day, a national holiday that we now celebrate as Veterans Day.
"To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations," Wilson said.
Wilson’s vision for the holiday was for a day to observe and honor veterans of World War I with parades and public meetings and a brief suspension of business beginning at 11:00 a.m. And on May 13, 1938, an act was approved that made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday. Though not six months later did World War II begin. According to the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, “Armistice day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen in the Nation’s history; after American forces had fought aggression in Korea, the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation (Public Law 380) on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.”
Now it’s your turn. Help Patriot Wood say “thank you” to all veterans who have fought for the United States by sharing these 15 quote images to the veterans in your community. Simply click each image to share on your Facebook profile.
If you’re looking for a gift, save 10% on any order when you use discount code MILITARY10. If you’re not sure where to start, browse our extensive selection of military wood flags in the Patriot Wood shop here.
"When our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep?" – George Canning
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” – Billy Graham
"The more we sweat in peace the less we bleed in war." – Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit
“Some people live an entire lifetime and wonder if they have ever made a difference in the world, but the Marines don’t have that problem.” – Ronald Reagan
"We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude." – Cynthia Ozick
“America's veterans embody the ideals upon which America was founded more than 229 years ago.” – Steve Buyer
"In war, there are no unwounded soldiers." – Jose Narosky
“I believe it is the nature of people to be heroes, given the chance.” – James A. Autry
"Lord, bid war's trumpet cease; Fold the whole earth in peace." – Oliver Wendell Holmes
“Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of a readiness to die.” – G.K. Chesterton
"Freedom is never free." – Author Unknown
“A man's country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle and patriotism is loyalty to that principle.” – George William Curtis
Unlike Memorial Day, which honors the memories of soldiers who have died in battle, Veterans Day is a chance to acknowledge all veterans, surviving, deceased, active, and retired, who have fought for the United States of America.
Here at Patriot Wood, this holiday means something special because our Chief Craftsman, Art, and his wife Shawna, served in the United States Air Force together after the first Gulf War.
Take the opportunity to give a meaningful, lasting gift to a veteran in your community. Save 10% on any order when you use discount code MILITARY10. If you’re not sure where to start, browse our extensive selection of military wood flags in the Patriot Wood shop. We’ve got an extensive selection including:
If you already have something in mind, it’s easy to make a custom order. Your options are truly limitless: if you have an idea, we’ll help you bring it to life. Get started with you custom order here.
]]>
The Maryland Flag holds rich family legacy. One source describes the Maryland Flag as one of the most perfect state flags with, “bold colors, interesting patterns, and correct heraldry—a flag that fairly shouts ‘Maryland.’” First flown in 1880, and adopted in 1904, the Maryland Flag has been proudly displayed for over 135 years.
]]>One of only four U.S. state flags that does not contain the color blue, The Maryland Flag’s design is regarded as one of the top in our nation. In fact, a 2001 survey placed Maryland's flag fourth best in design quality out of the 72 Canadian provincial, U.S. state and U.S. territory flags ranked.
This uniquely designed and distinctively colored state flag was officially adopted by Maryland in 1904. The unique black and gold design in the upper left and bottom right of the flag is George Calvert’s (Lord Baltimore) coat of arms. This honor was granted to him as a reward for storming a massive fortification during battle. The vertical bars represent the bars of the palisade he stormed.
The cross bottony with the red and white sides of the cross alternating in the upper right and bottom left is based on the coat of arms of the Crossland family, specifically Lord Baltimore’s mother, Grace Crossland. A design that quickly became known as the “Crossland Banner,” gained popularity during the American Civil War when the Marylanders who supported the Confederacy adopted the Crossland Banner in the flags, devices, and uniform pins of the Union Army.
At first, only the gold and black Calvert arms were associated with Maryland, being reintroduced in 1854. What many fail to mention is that since Calvert’s mother was a heraldic heiress (a daughter of deceased man who was entitled to a coat of arms and who carries forward the right to those arms for the benefit of her future male descendants), Calvert was entitled to use both coats of arms in his banner.
The Maryland Flag was first flown on October 11, 1880, at a parade marking the 150th anniversary of the founding of Baltimore, and in 1904, was officially adopted as the state flag. On on October 25, 1888, the flag was seen at the Gettysburg Battlefield during ceremonies dedicating monuments to the Maryland regiments of the Army of the Potomac.
Renditionions of the Maryland flag are also displayed on the Baltimore Ravens logo, one of Maryland’s local professional football teams, as well as the University of Maryland football team.
As you can see, the Baltimore Ravens logo is in the shape of a badge, with the red and white cross buttony on the bottom left, while the gold and black Calvert pillars take up the top right.
The University of Maryland specifically designed their home jersey so that each player proudly contrasts the cross buttony and gold and black Calvert arms with their white helmet and shirt.
Our version of the Maryland Wood Flag has raised elements providing a distinctive 3D look and feel. Each wood flag is replicated to match the flag’s true colors and dimensions.
As you can see above, our Maryland Vintage Wood Flag has a weathered look. Because some enjoy the character of an aged or antiqued wood flag, we’ve decided to make this special edition available to all our customers.
For America, there’s rich a history and legacy behind the the Maryland Flag—one that we could only touch on in this post. But you can relish in the legacy with our Maryland Wood Flag. The grain of the wood, the boldness of the colors and the raised elements will provide a conversation piece that all your friends will rave about.
Show your pride of America’s history and order your Maryland Wood Flag today.
]]>By presidential decree, the American flag is flown at half-staff at the White House and on all U.S. government buildings and establishments throughout the world; flags are also encouraged to be displayed on individual American homes. Additionally, a moment of silence is observed to correspond with the attacks, beginning at 8:46 A.M. (Eastern Daylight Time), the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.
]]>Enter John Paul Jones, Navy Captain during the American Revolution. Jones was credited for gloriously capturing the HMS Serapis during the Battle of Flamborough Head in 1779. Story goes that during this epic battle, his own ship ended up sinking to the bottom of the sea. After commandeering the HMS Serapis, he sailed away to the island port of Texel, run by neutral Dutch United Provinces. The only problem was that the HMS Serapis’ banner had been blown into sea during battle. Arriving to port without a flag, Jones was immediately mistaken for a pirate by the port’s officials.
One source tells us that, “...that the Admiralty issued orders to have him hung as a pirate if he could be captured. The reason given for the order was a legalistic one—he did not fly the flag of any recognized nation.”
Jones was captured and placed in prison. But, in an attempt to save Jones’ life, Deutschland's ambassador reached out to Benjamin Franklin regarding a design of the U.S. flag. His hope was that a recognizable standard could be quickly made.
As far as Benjamin Franklin knew, no national flag yet existed. Nevertheless, he echoed Arthur Lee’s undisclosed mandate for the flag to be designed with “white, red, and blue alternately to thirteen" with a "blue field with thirteen stars" in the canton.
Before long, Jones was free and flying aboard the HMS Serapis with what we now call the “Serapis” flag. Thanks to Benjamin Franklin, this piece of history has also been know to be called the “Franklin flag.” Franklin’s haste and quick production of this design spared Jones from being hung and his life was spared.
The Serapis flag is distinctive because of the four, irregularly placed blue stripes and 8-pointed stars. Although it was flown as a U.S. flag and was recognized as such by the Dutch, it did not meet the Congressional description of U.S. flags under the Flag Resolution of 1777, which specified "alternate red and white" stripes. Although the Serapis flag was never adopted, it was one of the first recognized symbols of the U.S. before the national flag was embraced, and that is exactly what makes the Serapis flag so unique.
Patriot Wood is about building the best wood flags and wooden wall art we can produce through our passion and unique craftsmanship. Like all of our flags, the Serapis wood flag incorporates raised elements, giving it a distinctive 3D look and feel. We use these raised pieces to enhance the overall quality of every flag you receive. Our Serapis wooden flag is carefully handcrafted so that the final product not only makes us proud but will make you proud as well. Savor the history and order yours today!
]]>Several months ago, Art Pinney, Patriot Wood’s craftsman, built Patriot Wood’s first Thin Blue Line Wood Flag. This wooden flag combines the Thin Blue Line emblem with the flag of the United States. Used by law enforcement, the Thin Blue Line emblem’s simple design depicts a central, horizontal blue line separating two black lines. Patriot Wood’s Thin Blue Line Wood Flag integrates this emblem into a black-and-white version of the American flag for a beautiful and symbolic combination.
Keep reading to learn what inspired Art to build this flag.
]]>We don’t have a formal process for choosing which flags we’ll build next. Most of the time, it comes down to what you tell us you’d like us to build—we want to make the flags and wall art you want! Sometimes these requests come from informal conversations, and sometimes they’re custom-order requests. We also often iterate existing flags in our catalog, creating different versions of flags we’ve already built. Other flags have just been on our build list for a long time—some because of historical importance and others because they have a strong story that catches our attention.
But the events that led to the Thin Blue Line Wood Flag’s creation were a bit different. Art decided to build this flag after he was touched by current events and wanted to show his support for law enforcement.
One situation in particular affected and inspired Art: earlier this year, Officer Brian Moore died tragically in the line of duty. Moore, just 25 years old, was an up-and-coming, well-liked and respected police officer. Moore’s tragic death happened at a time when police officers were getting an increasingly bad rap from the press.
Art’s deep respect for those in law enforcement and how they serve the community, combined with the lasting effects Moore’s death had on him, led to the creation of this flag—a flag he hoped will be a source of inspiration and strength for law-enforcement officers and their families. He also hoped it’ll give him an opportunity to thank some officers for their service and get to know their stories.
The response to the Thin Blue Line Wood flag was greater than we could’ve imagined. After it launched, it quickly became Patriot Wood’s most-popular flag. But what we value even more than its popularity is the chance it’s given us to hear other people’s stories.
The Thin Blue Line Wood Flag has gone to officers around the country, including Ralph Friedman, the most-decorated NYPD cop in history, and Fort Lauderdale Captain Luis Alvarez, who bought the first flag. For Art, hearing from them is one of the greatest joys in his job.
Since launching the first Thin Blue Line Wood Flag, we’ve built several different versions per customer request. These include a vintage Thin Blue Line Wood Flag, a version with a Bible verse, and many others personalized with police officer’s names.
The Thin Blue Line emblem honors the men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice, the more than 100 law-enforcement officers who are killed every year. When something bad happens, most people run away—yet they ran toward it, to protect others. To every police officer, we say thank you for your bravery and your sacrifices.
]]>Few flags are as recognizable as the Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom. We’ve been a fan of this flag for some time, and became even more interested in its history when we created our wooden Union Jack replica.
During our research, we were intrigued by the manner in which the Union Jack represents the four countries of the United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
]]>During our research, we were intrigued by the manner in which the Union Jack represents the four countries of the United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The current version of the Union Jack is the combination of three different flags. As you might guess, these flags have roots in the countries that comprise the United Kingdom. Here’s how it breaks down.
England contributed St. George’s Cross to the Union Jack. This flag—a red cross on a white background—honors Saint George, England’s patron saint. However, St. George wasn’t the first to be associated with it. It was originally the flag of the Genoa republic, then it was adopted by crusaders, then England. The first official English use occurred in the thirteenth century, when English soldiers wore it for identification.
Eventually, St. George became the patron saint of England and the red cross became more than just a patch that identified England’s military. It became the flag of England, and a core component of the Union Jack. Here's what it looks like:
Scotland also contributed a patron-saint flag to the Union Jack. Their national flag, Saint Andrew’s Cross, was first adopted in the fifteenth century. It honors their patron saint, Saint Andrew. As the legend goes, St. Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped cross. Over time, iconography developed to show the apostle on the cross, to commemorate his martyrdom. This includes the flag—which also goes by “The Saltire.”
Like the English flag, Saint Andrew’s Cross was first used by Scotland to identify their soldiers on the battlefield. Here’s the flag:
The year 1603 saw the Union of the Crowns, the event that brought Scotland and England together. When this went down, a combined British flag was created. This flag—the flag of Great Britain—is the predecessor to the modern Union Jack. This is what it looked like:
The third component of the Union Jack is owed to Ireland. Their contribution, the Cross of Saint Patrick, is also a patron-saint flag. While the flag’s origins are unclear, its association with Saint Patrick dates back to the 1780s.
It wasn’t until 1801 that Great Britain and Ireland were united. This resulted in a change to the flag of Great Britain: the cross of Saint Patrick was added to the existing flag of Great Britain, and the Union Jack was created.
But what about Wales? The United Kingdom has four countries, but only three are represented on the Union Jack.
It’s not that Wales isn’t a country; both Wales and the United Kingdom maintain Wales’ status as an independent nation. However, when the first flag of Great Britain was developed, Wales was already part of England. Because of this, it has no special representation in the Union Jack.
Both the Union Jack and its individual components are steeped in rich history. We hope you’ve learned something about this iconic flag. If you’re interested in owning your own piece of Union Jack wall art, check out our wooden replica of the Union Jack.
]]>IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
]]>The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. Continue reading the entire Declaration of Independence here.
Happy Birthday America from all of us at Patriot Wood.
]]>On July 1st, 1867, Canada was officially born when the British North America Act, now known as the Constitution Act, united three colonies into a single country. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and the United Province of Canada (Ontario and Quebec) entered into dominion with the British Empire. Originally called Dominion Day, the holiday was officially renamed in October 1982, the year the Canada Act was enacted.
One of the main differences between Canada and United States was our alliance with England. While the United States broke away from England on July 4th, 1776, Canada wasn’t completely independent of England. Between the years of 1867 and 1982, limited rights and political control over Canada were held by the British parliament and cabinet. The last remnants of this jurisdiction were relinquished in 1982, when the Constitution Act patriated the Canadian constitution.
From British Columbia to Newfoundland, Quebec to the Yukon, Canada Day is referred to as “Canada’s Birthday.” The day Canada became a nation. Canadians will celebrate with parades, festivals, barbecues, music, and fireworks. Sounds very familiar.
Patriot Wood is located just 40 miles south of Vancouver BC. We currently offer handcrafted wooden versions of the Canadian Flag and the Flag of Quebec. If you would like us to build another Canadian province wood flag for you, let us know via our Custom Order page.
]]>
With that in mind, we gathered resources to help you pull off a perfect Fourth of July party. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for food, decor, activities, music, or need to brush up on your American history, you’ll find resources in this list to help you pull it off without a hitch.
]]>With that in mind, we gathered resources to help you pull off a perfect Fourth of July party. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for food, decor, activities, music, or need to brush up on your American history, you’ll find resources in this list to help you pull it off without a hitch.
Fourth of July is one of the few holidays that takes place outdoors, which means there’s a good chance you’ll be barbecuing. You’ll also want to think about dessert—will it be it the classic apple pie, s’mores roasted over a campfire, brownies, or a little bit of everything? Why not make your food match the day: now’s the time to break out your patriotic recipes. Here are some resources to help you prepare and inspire your Fourth of July menu:
What’s a Fourth of July party without some outdoor decorations? Check out these resources for some decor inspiration that goes beyond just red-white-and-blue items:
During the afternoon, it’s time for yard games and sports—but when the sun goes down, you’ll want to catch some fireworks. Here are some resources to help you plan your Fourth of July activities:
Now’s the time to brush up on your American history. Your Fourth of July will be better if you better understand the context of what's happening.
Looking for even more ideas? Check out 99 Spectacular 4th of July Ideas from Signs.com.
We hope these resources help make your Fourth of July a success. Enjoy your party, be safe, and remember the reason we celebrate.
Find a great resource for Independence Day parties? Share it in the comments below!
]]>
To celebrate Flag Day, Patriot Wood is giving away a 36x20" vintage wooden replica of the American flag! The winner of our first-ever flag giveaway has been selected and contacted via email. So check your email inbox to see if you've won!
]]>Our first giveaway came to an end yesterday. We'd like to offer a sincere thanks to everyone who helped us spread the word by sharing the giveaway with their friends—you helped make it a great success, and we can't wait to do it again.
We'll be shipping off a Vintage American Wood flag to Chris from Washington state, winner of the Flag Day giveaway. Congrats, Chris!
To learn more about this wooden flag, visit the flag-details page on PatriotWood.com.
]]>