Flag of Washington, D.C. facts for kids
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| Proportion | 1:2 |
|---|---|
| Adopted | October 15, 1938 |
| Design | Argent two bars Gules, in chief three mullets of the second. |
| Designed by | Charles A. R. Dunn (Original Designer) Commissioner Melvin C. Hazen (Official Designer) Arthur E. Du Bois (Official Designer) |
The flag of Washington, D.C. is the official symbol of the United States capital city. It has a simple but meaningful design: three red stars above two red bars, all on a white background. This special flag is based on the family symbol, or coat of arms, of George Washington, who was the first President of the United States. His great-great-great-grandfather, Lawrence Washington, originally used this design.
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Understanding the Flag's Design
The flag of Washington, D.C., is a unique symbol. It features two horizontal red stripes, called "bars," on a white background. Above these bars, there are three red five-pointed stars. This design is directly inspired by the family crest of George Washington.
Why George Washington's Coat of Arms?
The city of Washington, D.C., is named after George Washington. It makes sense that its flag would honor him. The design comes from a very old family symbol that has been used by the Washington family for centuries. This symbol was originally given to George Washington's ancestor, Lawrence Washington.
The colors and shapes on the flag are simple but powerful. The red and white colors are often seen in American symbols. The stars and bars are a nod to the original family crest.
The History of the Flag's Adoption
For many years, Washington, D.C., did not have its own official flag. People often used a different flag, which showed the Capitol Building on a white background. However, many felt that the capital city needed a more unique and meaningful symbol.
Searching for a New Design
In the early 1900s, there was a growing desire for an official flag. Various groups and individuals tried to create designs. One notable attempt was by the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). They presented a design that included elements similar to the final flag.
However, it was not until the 1930s that a serious effort began. A special commission was formed to choose a flag. This commission included important figures like Commissioner Melvin C. Hazen. They looked at many ideas.
Choosing the Winning Design
The commission eventually chose a design by Charles A. R. Dunn. His design was based on the Washington family coat of arms. This choice was officially approved on October 15, 1938. Arthur E. Du Bois also helped with the official design.
The flag's simple, bold look quickly became popular. It was seen as a fitting tribute to the city's namesake. It also provided a clear and recognizable symbol for the nation's capital.
Images for kids
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DC National Guards used as the District of Columbia flag in the October 1917 issue of the National Geographic
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The Daughter of the American Revolution design presented by Ethel Leibsohn and designed by Mrs. George T. Hawkins
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Commissioner Melvin C. Hazen holding the district flag selected by his commission in October 1938
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The 1792 map quoted by Commissioner Hazen for the basis of the design
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The Lansdowne portrait by Gilbert Stuart, 1796, features an ink well with the coat of arms engraved on it.
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The Washington family coat of arms in 14th-century stained glass at Selby Abbey, North Yorkshire, England
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Washington family coat of arms above entrance at Sulgrave Manor, Northamptonshire, England, built by Robert Washington in 1540s
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See also
In Spanish: Bandera del Distrito de Columbia para niños
