Discover the Vibrant Flags Displayed by the Patriots During the American Revolution

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America’s 250th Anniversary

A Smithsonian magazine special report

At the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, a new exhibition has gathered together 17 historic flags that served as symbols of liberty

Sonja Anderson – Daily Correspondent

April 28, 2025 1:51 p.m.

Among the collection is a flag featuring 13 interconnected gold rings, each inscribed with the names of the original 13 states. This flag, like many others from the period, provides a glimpse into the diverse symbols that defined the aspirations of the early American republic.

During the revolutionary period, before the well-known stars and stripes were adopted, patriots displayed an array of flags. These various designs incorporated classical motifs, animals, and catchy slogans, yet only about 30 have survived the test of time.

Currently, 17 of these significant flags can be explored at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia as part of the exhibition titled “Banners of Liberty: An Exhibition of Original Revolutionary War Flags.” This exhibition opened on April 19, aligning with the 250th commemoration of the historic “shot heard ’round the world.”

Throughout the ensuing seven-year conflict, flags played a key role in embodying the political ideals and unifying spirit of the nation while promoting morale among the revolutionary forces, as articulated by the museum.

James Taub, an associate curator at the museum, explains the vital importance of these flags in a military context: “In the era of horse and musket, knowing your position on the battlefield was crucial for both commanders and troops.”

Beyond their practical use, these flags functioned as icons of freedom and collective resistance against British rule. As Taub elaborates, they served as “tools as much as they are motivations” for those rallying under their colors.

Noteworthy in the exhibition are six flags that underwent conservation, including two significant banners crafted for the Second New Hampshire Regiment. These impressive flags, made by Fanny Johonnot Williams and adorned by Daniel Rea Jr., were captured by British forces in 1777, ultimately finding their way to the New Hampshire Historical Society.

Matthew Skic, a senior curator at the museum, noted the extraordinary significance of these flags due to their intricate designs, which reveal deeper meanings. One particular flag prominently features a shield with the regiment’s name and the motto “the glory, not the prey.” Another showcases a radiant yellow sun surrounded by the phrase “we are one,” encircled by 13 interlocking gold rings that signify the original states—a motif conceptualized by Benjamin Franklin, first appearing on colonial currency.

A fascinating flag from a militia unit in South Carolina displays a rattlesnake, an emblematic choice for the time, alongside a depiction of a “Spartan dog,” possibly referencing a character from Shakespeare’s work, as suggested by experts.

Another notable flag, belonging to the First Pennsylvania Battalion, features 13 arrows and bears the rallying words “united we stand.”

While the majority of the exhibition consists of Revolutionary War flags—16 in total—there is one additional flag showcased that dates to the post-war period. This banner is characterized by its red and white stripes and presents a “Great Star” pattern of 13 stars arranged against a blue field.

The flags will remain on display until the end of summer. According to a report from the Philadelphia Inquirer, R. Scott Stephenson, the museum president, described the exhibition as a “once-in-a-many-lifetimes opportunity” during the opening ceremony.

“Banners of Liberty” will be available for viewing at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia through August 10.

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www.smithsonianmag.com