Historic Flags Series

The 1968 Historic Flags series (#1345-54) consists of 10 stamps that feature the historic United States flags flown in American history. They were issued on July 4, 1968, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and printed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

One stamp features the flag flown at Fort Moultrie. This flag was carried by colonists of South Carolina when the British attacked Sullivan’s Island. It is also known as the Liberty Flag. The victory saved Charleston and the fort was named for its commander, William Moultrie.

One stamp features the flag flown at Fort McHenry. There are 15 stars and 15 strips on this flag which was the inspiration for our national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner. It was flown during the War of 1812. The original flag hangs at the Smithsonian Institution.

One stamp features the Washington’s Cruisers flag. George Washington sailed seven ships around Boston to keep the British from getting supplies in 1775. The ships flew a white flag with a pine tree that represented freedom. These ships were the first United States Navy.

Another stamp features the Bennington flag of 1777. The British were defeated at the Battle of Bennington by colonists from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont.

The Rhode Island flag of 1775 is also featured. It was carried at the Battle of Yorktown by the First Rhode Island Regiment. Since 1647, Rhode Island has used the anchor and motto. This flag has 13 stars.

The First Stars and Stripes flag of 1777 is featured in this series. It was the first thirteen star, thirteen stripe flag authorized by the Continental Congress.

One stamp features the flag carried during the Battle of Bunker Hill. The colonists were defeated the British took heavy losses.

The Grand Union flag is also known as the Continental Colors. This was the first national flag of the United States. The colonies are represented by the thirteen stripes and the British union flag shows that many wanted to stay loyal to England.

One stamp features the flag of the Philadelphia Light Horse Troop. General George Washington was escorted by the troop when he took command of the Continental Army.

The last stamp features the first Navy Jack which was flown by the Continental Navy. The rattlesnake was shown as a symbol of the colonist’s resistance to British rule.

Activities for children:

1. Have children pick their favorite flag and draw it.
2. Have children design their own flag.
3. Have children look up some of the battles mentioned and draw a picture of what they imagined it would be like.
4. Have children design their own stamps.
5. Have students collect stamps from letters that interest them. Then find out why they were featured on that stamp.

Reference: 
https://www.mysticstamp.com/Products/United-States/1345-54/USA/