As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 2025, a significant exhibition titled “Banners of Liberty” at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia is capturing the essence of the period.
This exhibition features the largest-ever collection of historic Revolutionary flags, assembled by curator James Taub, and highlights a fascinating aspect of the American struggle for independence.
These flags, which once flew above the battlefields, served not only as markers for military units in a time of horse and musket but also as symbols of the thoughts and ideals that ignited the flames of revolution.
The phrase “shot heard round the world,” made famous by Ralph Waldo Emerson in his 1837 poem “Concord Hymn,” refers to the opening fire that signaled the start of the American Revolution.
Contrary to popular belief, it was not related to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, nor is it primarily recognized from the educational cartoon “Schoolhouse Rock.”
According to Taub, flags during the late 18th century were crucial as both tools and motivational symbols for military units.
Having a recognizable flag allowed generals to locate their troops, while soldiers depended on these flags to understand where they should be positioned during battle.
Of the hundreds of flags created for various fighting units during the Revolutionary War, only about 30 are believed to have survived to the present day.
Taub’s collection brings together 17 of these historic flags, borrowed from both private and institutional collections, and he notes that such a gathering has likely not occurred since the war concluded in 1783.
This exhibit represents not only a rare opportunity for history enthusiasts but is also a testament to the ongoing relevance of the ideals that fueled the revolution.
The flags on display trace the evolution of revolutionary thought as the colonists transitioned from fighting for their rights as English subjects to seeking independence from British rule.
Interestingly, some of the earliest flags from the rebellion displayed British colors, reflecting the initial hesitance to fully break away from British authority.
For instance, two flags associated with the New Hampshire regiments exemplify the confusion in symbolism that persisted even after the Declaration of Independence was presented in 1776.
These flags, ordered in the spring of 1777, still carry British colors, symbolizing the complex relationship between loyalty and rebellion during the early revolutionary years.
Taub pointed out that these flags contain the British Grand Union and the cross of St. George, indicating that the identity of the patriots was still being forged.
Moreover, the real challenge for American revolutionaries was not only their lack of a standard flag but also their lack of a formalized military force.
The Revolution began with an informal network of militias, formed by individual colonies and private citizens, rather than a cohesive army.
It wasn’t until June 1775 that the Continental Congress agreed to form a centralized military force, relying heavily on the support of local militias.
In Pennsylvania, a colony primarily governed by Quakers who opposed mandatory military service, no formal fighting unit was established until 1777.
This unique situation is reflected in the exhibition, with a notable example being the large buff-colored flag associated with the Pennsylvania Associators, which still features the recognizable British Union Jack.
Each flag in the exhibit is imbued with imagery that references key ideals, political sentiments, and alliances that defined the revolutionary spirit.
For instance, the flag of the 2nd Regiment of Light Dragoons includes 13 stripes in its upper corner, along with a crest that presents a winged thundercloud.
Beneath the crest lies a scroll inscribed with a Latin phrase that has raised eyebrows among historians.
Taub humorously noted that the Latin might be more of an interpretation than a perfect translation, revealing the limited understanding of the language during that period.
While the exact meaning remains debated, it is close to interpreting as “Her sons will answer with thunder,” reflecting the fierce spirit of the patriots ready to defend their newfound identity.
Ultimately, the “Banners of Liberty” exhibition not only commemorates a pivotal moment in American history but also serves as a reminder of the visual and symbolic expressions that helped shape the nation’s identity.
image source from：https://whyy.org/articles/american-revolution-flags-museum-banners-liberty/
