Rebecca Young (flag maker) facts for kids
Rebecca (Flower) Young was an important flag maker during the American Revolution. Her name shows up in official records as early as 1781 for making "Continental Standards," which were flags for the American army. This makes her one of the first known people to make the Flag of the United States. Besides flags, she also made blankets and drum cases for the army between 1780 and 1785. In 1781, Rebecca Young even placed an ad in a newspaper called the Pennsylvania Packet, saying she made "all kinds of colors for the Army and Navy." She also sewed the special flag for the First American Regiment, led by Colonel Josiah Harmar.
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Rebecca Young's Family and Their Impact
Rebecca Young had many family members who played a big part in early American history.
Her Brother, Benjamin Flower
In 1777, her brother, Colonel Benjamin Flower, helped save the famous Liberty Bell. He moved it from the old Pennsylvania State House (now called "Independence Hall"). This happened when British forces took over Philadelphia during the war.
Her Son, Dr. Benjamin Young
Her son, Dr. Benjamin Young, became a doctor. He learned his medical skills from another famous doctor, Benjamin Rush.
Her Daughter, Mary Young Pickersgill
Rebecca's daughter, Mary Young Pickersgill (1776-1857), became famous for sewing a very special flag. This flag was for Fort McHenry in Baltimore. It was so big and impressive that it inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that became The Star-Spangled Banner, our national anthem.
Making the Fort McHenry Flags
Mary Pickersgill, along with her daughter Caroline and some house staff, started making the flags in 1813. They began at her home on East Pratt and Albemarle Streets. The main flag was so huge that they had to finish sewing it on the floor of a nearby brewery!
Flags for Fort McHenry
In 1813, Mary delivered two flags to Major George Armistead at Fort McHenry. She received an official receipt for them. One was a very large "garrison flag," measuring 30 by 42 feet. This was the flag that flew proudly over Fort McHenry outside Baltimore, Maryland. The other was a smaller "storm flag," which was 17 by 25 feet. Seeing the large flag still flying after a night of battle inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to the poem that became our national anthem.
