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American-Made 1776 & Founders Flags
The year 1776 is more than just a date on the calendar; it is the genesis of the American experiment. It represents the courage of the Founders, the resolve of the Continental Army, and the birth of a nation dedicated to liberty. At BuyAmerican.com, we believe that the flags representing our independence should be crafted by the very people that independence was won for. Welcome to our American-Made 1776 & Founders Flags collection, a historical gallery of Revolutionary War banners grown, woven, and sewn entirely within the United States.
It is a sad irony to see symbols of American liberty manufactured in countries that do not share our values. We offer the authentic alternative. We partner with historic American flag manufacturers who treat these designs with the reverence they deserve. Whether you are a history buff looking for a historically accurate Grand Union flag, a veteran honoring the First Navy Jack, or a patriot decorating a farmhouse with a tea-stained Bennington banner, these products are built with integrity. Display the spirit of 1776 with flags that are as resilient and enduring as the history they represent.
The Bennington '76 Flag
Perhaps the most iconic of the "1776" designs, the Bennington flag is instantly recognizable by the large "76" in the canton, surrounded by an arch of stars.
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Historic Legend: While its exact origins are debated by historians, this flag is strongly associated with the Battle of Bennington and the bicentennial celebrations of the nation. It captures the rugged spirit of the Green Mountain Boys and the colonial militia.
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Cotton & Nylon Options: Choose 100% cotton for a traditional, matte finish that looks stunning framed or hung indoors. Alternatively, select SolarMax nylon for a vibrant outdoor display that resists fading and flies easily in the breeze.
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Embroidered Details: On our premium versions, the "76" and the stars are densely embroidered, providing a tactile, high-quality finish that cheap prints cannot match.
The Grand Union (Continental Colors)
Before there were stars, there was the Grand Union. Considered the first national flag of the United States, this banner features the British Union Jack in the canton with the thirteen rebellious red and white stripes.
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The George Washington Connection: This is the flag that flew over Prospect Hill and was used by the Continental Army during the earliest stages of the war. Flying it today is a deep nod to the very beginning of the struggle for independence.
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Heavy-Duty Construction: Crafted from 2-ply polyester or durable nylon, our Grand Union flags are built to withstand the elements, featuring reinforced headers and brass grommets.
First Navy Jack & Culpeper Flags
The Revolution was fought on land and sea. Honor the maritime and militia history of the era.
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First Navy Jack: Featuring the uncoiled rattlesnake across thirteen red and white stripes with the motto "Don't Tread on Me," this flag was flown by the Continental Navy. It remains a powerful symbol of American naval power and resilience.
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Culpeper Minute Men: A stark white banner featuring the rattlesnake and the defiant slogan "Liberty or Death." This flag honors the Virginia militia and serves as a bold statement piece for any collection.
Tea-Stained & "Heritage" Series
For those seeking a colonial aesthetic without waiting 200 years for the fabric to age, our Heritage Series is the perfect solution.
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Antiqued Finish: These flags undergo a meticulous tea-staining process (or use specially dyed fabrics) to achieve a sepia-toned, weathered look. The white stripes appear as a warm beige, and the blues are muted and deep.
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Rustic Decor: These flags are favorites for interior design, looking perfectly at home in log cabins, farmhouses, and studies where a bright, shiny nylon flag might feel too modern.
Buying Considerations: Curating History
Selecting a historical flag is different from buying a standard 50-star Old Glory. Here is what to consider to ensure you are getting a quality American-made product that fits your needs:
1. Historical Accuracy vs. Modern Materials
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Cotton: If you want the flag to look as it did in 1776, cotton is the most accurate choice. It has a heavy, coarse weave and deep colors. However, it is not ideal for permanent outdoor display in wet climates as it dries slowly.
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Nylon: While nylon didn't exist in 1776, it is the best material for flying a historical flag outdoors today. It is durable, colorfast, and sheds water. Choose this if you plan to fly the Bennington or Grand Union on your front porch daily.
2. The FMAA Certification The market is flooded with "historical" flags made overseas. To ensure your purchase supports American manufacturing, look for the FMAA (Flag Manufacturers Association of America) certification. This guarantees that the cotton/nylon was manufactured in the US, the weaving was done in the US, and the assembly was completed in the US.
3. Display Etiquette
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Order of Precedence: If you are flying a historical flag (like the 1776 Bennington) on the same pole or in a group with the current 50-star US flag, the current US flag must always be in the position of honor (highest point or to the observer's left).
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Historical Status: The US Flag Code allows for the display of historical US flags as long as they are treated with the same respect as the current flag. They should not be dipped, allowed to touch the ground, or displayed in disrepair.
4. Sizing for Impact
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3' x 5': The standard size for residential poles.
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4' x 6': Good for larger homes or two-story commercial buildings.
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2' x 3': Ideal for smaller porches or boat mounts (especially for the First Navy Jack).