Darien Historical Society Hosts Presentations On Flag's Evolution

From Darien Historical Society: The history of the American flag is as varied and fascinating as the Republic it represents, and an exhibit at the Darien Historical Society, “Long May She Wave: The Evolution of the Flag,” which opens on Thursday, January 18, will tell the story of the flag in all its red, white and blue glory.

“The flags from the Society’s collection are really unique,” said Ken Reiss, the Society’s historian. “One of the beauties is a 35-star flag that was official from 1863 to 1865. This hand-stitched flag has stars that tilt randomly – it is a great example of how people used to come up with creative patterns before it was formally set by Congress in 1912.”

In addition to several antique flags, the exhibit will include a timeline that traces the evolution of the nation’s banner through both local and national events. Spanning from pre- colonial days to the year 1960, when the 50th star was officially added, the exhibit will feature photographs, a soundtrack with music and voices from the past, and a lecture series on subjects relating to the flag’s history. An interactive portion will challenge viewers to design a 51-star flag and also to write in a journal about a time when the flag stirred a
strong emotion.

“Visiting this exhibit will be like taking a walk through time, and it’s designed for the whole family,” said Maggie McIntire, executive director of the Society. “Not only will you be able to see how Darien’s history is reflected in the nation’s past, but also how the flag has changed right along with both the town and the nation. We think people will walk away with a deeper understanding – and hopefully an appreciation for – both the town and the stars and stripes.”

The “Long May She Wave” exhibit will run through March 13 and can be viewed during the Society’s open hours and during lectures. The exhibit is free for members, Darien’s First Responders, Teachers and Students. The cost for non-members will be $5.

The Darien Historical Society wishes to thank its generous exhibit sponsors to date: M3 Messenger, Christie’s Quilting Boutique of Norwalk and The Darien Times.

For more information, or to sponsor the exhibit, please call 203.655-9233 or visit our website www.darienhistorical.org. The exhibit will feature three lectures including: “Star Spangled Banner & Opening Champagne Reception” will be held on Thursday, January 18 at 7:30 p.m. with Ed Hynes, a local history expert and financial advisor at Merrill Lynch in Westport. Hynes will discuss our nation’s most famous flag and the inspiration behind the national anthem. A champagne reception will follow the lecture. “Our Flag: Folklore & Fact” will be held on Sunday, January 28 at 3 p.m. Did Betsy Ross make the first flag? Get the real story about our flag’s history with Susan Jerome, collections manager for the Historic Textile & Costume Collection at the University of Rhode Island.

“The Lincoln Flag – Rediscovered” will be held on Sunday, March 4 at 3 p.m. After 76 years in a cluttered storage area, the flag that decorated Lincoln’s box at Ford’s Theater was rediscovered. Here the fascinating story with Ilene Frank, chief curator at the Connecticut Historical Society. To register, please visit our website at www.darienhistorical.org, or call 203.655.9233. The cost for the lectures will be $5 for members, $20 for non-members and $30 for non- members and a guest. Students attend free.

Image Courtesy of Darien Historical Society