In July 1890, 125 years ago, two territories – Wyoming and Idaho – joined the Union and earned the right to have stars added to the American flag to signify their new statehood. But it didn’t happen without some glitches involving a national law and a national holiday, and one of the states came up… continue
A century ago, in its annual report about its many efforts to promote patriotism, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) listed a “Flag Alphabet Acrostic.” It used the 26 letters of the alphabet to teach about the American flag and flag etiquette. The DAR has been committed to promoting the American flag since its… continue
Picture a fireman. You see a helmet and hose, right? But do you also see an American flag? Based on these stories from the past, you should. The examples come from 150, 100 and 70 years ago. 1865 William Hoover, a Philadelphia fireman, left his job in 1862 to sign up with the 99th Pennsylvania… continue
Frank Auburn’s life was a classic American story that included an American flag waving from a staff, thanks to friendly firemen. In 1911, Auburn graduated from the Illinois State School for the Blind. Along with this peers, he was warned by the school that “the greatest problem that confronts the blind is…securing employment after their… continue
Movie buffs know that many memorable moments have occurred during the annual presentation of the Academy Awards, such as the surprise appearance of a streaker and, far more seriously, the first time a Black actress won an Oscar. One great moment, however, has been forgotten: the time two actors in uniform waved an American flag…. continue