Betsy Ross (aka John Benning Chapter member Gail Thompson) and one of Gen. George Washington’s aides on their visit to Moultrie in 2023. Citizens can visit with Betsy Ross during Second Saturday on June 8 on Courthouse Square.

MOULTRIE — Betsy Ross, who was commissioned by Gen. George Washington to create the first flag for the United States, will visit Moultrie on June 8 during Second Saturday on the Courthouse Square.

In commemoration of Flag Day, officially June 14, Ross and members of her sewing circle will share information about the history of the U.S. flag. Ross’s visit is being sponsored by John Benning Chapter, National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution. Storytime and activities for children will begin at 10 a.m. and continue through 1 p.m. under the red tent located near the fountain on the Courthouse Square.

“The country is three years away from observing its 250th birthday in 2026,” said Nancy Coleman, John Benning Chapter regent. “We wanted to celebrate Flag Day by bringing the lady who made the very first U.S. flag, to Moultrie in commemoration of the nation’s semi-quincentennial.” Coleman said the objective of the visit is to teach children (and adults) about America’s most widely-recognized and beloved symbol.

As a part of its annual event, DAR will also conduct a Flag Retirement Ceremony. According to the U.S. Flag Code, the proper way to retire worn and tattered flags is by flame. DAR has a special ritual that explains the various parts of the flag and their meaning. The ceremony also recognizes the 13 original states. In addition, DAR members will honor their patriot ancestors by placing a piece of the flag on the flag while stating the patriot’s name, where and how he/she served in the American Revolution.

Flag Day is celebrated on June 14 commemorating the adoption of the Flag of the United States on June 14, 1777, by resolution of the Second Continental Congress. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation declaring June 14 as Flag Day. National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress in 1949

“Flag Day is a great day to replace torn and tattered flags,” said Coleman. DAR will be collecting worn flags to be retired at a later date by Veterans of Foreign Wars. Citizens can drop flags by the DAR tent between 10 and 1 on Saturday or at the drop box at the VFW post located at 1114 Fifth Ave. S.E.

Also involved in the Flag Retirement will be members of the newly organized Thigpen Trail Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. DAR members will be on hand to assist interested citizens research for ancestors which may qualify them to join DAR, SAR or Children of the American Revolution.

For more information on Flag Day or becoming a member of DAR, SAR, or C.A.R., contact Coleman at MoultrieDAR@gmail.com.