A New Constellation: A Collection of Historic 13-Star Flags

This Flag Day, 40 rare historic flags will go on display at the Museum of the American Revolution, marking the first time that this collection has ever been displayed together. The flags feature 32 different arrangements of 13 stars, representing the 13 colonies that declared independence from Great Britain during the Revolutionary War. The 13-star flag became the official flag of the new nation on June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress passed the first Flag Act. In an adjacent activity space, visitors of all ages can try on Revolutionary-inspired clothing, handle replica objects, and participate in activities like designing their own flag.

This exhibit was developed and curated by Jeff R. Bridgman, a leading dealer of antique flags and political textiles, from his collection of historic flags.