AMERICAN FLAG MYSTERY SOLVED (WINTER 2025)

Historic Beverly, the historical society in the city founded by Roger Conant, has received many questions about the flag raised in September on the front of its headquarters, the John Cabot House. 

The answer is that it is the Grand Union Flag, which is America’s First National Flag. 

‘Before the Stars and Stripes, there was the Grand Union Flag, also known as the Continental Colors,’ explains a spokesperson for Historic Beverly. 

‘Featuring 13 red and white stripes for the colonies and the Union Jack in the corner, this flag represented a nation in transition: loyal to the Crown, yet yearning for independence. It was first flown in late 1775 early 1777 by the Continental Army and Navy and symbolizes unity among the colonies and their evolving identity. It is also known as: the Congress Flag, First Navy Ensign, and Cambridge Flag. ‘From reform to revolution, the Grand Union Flag marked the birth of a new American identity.’  
 

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