United States Capitol Flag Program facts for kids
The United States Capitol Flag Program is a special way for people to get an American flag that has flown over the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C. This program is run by the Architect of the Capitol, who is in charge of the Capitol building and its grounds. Members of the U.S. Congress help people get these unique flags.
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What is the Capitol Flag Program?
The Capitol Flag Program lets people get a flag that has been flown over the United States Capitol building. These flags are a special keepsake. They often help people remember important moments or honor groups. The Architect of the Capitol manages all requests for these flags. They work with members of the United States Senate and the House of Representatives.
How Did the Program Start?
The Capitol Flag Program began in 1937. It started when a member of Congress asked for a flag that had flown over the Capitol building. Over time, more and more people wanted these flags. The program grew to include celebrating national holidays and special events. It also became a way to honor groups like schools and community organizations.
Soon, there were too many requests for the flags available. So, the Architect of the Capitol created a system. They started flying smaller flags that people could buy through their Congress members' offices. This helped meet the growing demand.
How Flags Are Flown and Certified
Flags are flown every day over the Capitol building, as long as the weather is good. They are not flown on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or New Year's Day. There are special flag poles used just for these flags.
After a flag has flown over the Capitol, it gets a special paper. This paper is called a certificate of authenticity. The Architect of the Capitol gives out this certificate. It proves that the flag truly flew over the U.S. Capitol.
How Many Flags Are Flown?
The Capitol Flag Program is very popular. As of 2012, the Architect of the Capitol handled over 100,000 flag requests each year. The number of requests keeps growing steadily. This shows how much people value these special flags.
