Most Americans are probably pretty familiar with the American Flag. You probably know the flag has 50 stars, 13 stripes, and maybe even know the story behind Betsy Ross. However, there is always room to learn more things about our country and the flag that represents it! 

In honor of just being American, we decided to put your knowledge to the test! Here are 16 fun facts about Old Glory, let’s see how many you know.

15 Facts about the American Flag:

1. The flag has been changed 27 times. The final star, for Hawaii, was added in 1960.

2. Flag Day is a nationwide observance today, but Pennsylvania is the only state that recognizes it as a legal holiday.

3. The flag is normally flown from sunrise to sunset. According to the Flag Code, if you’re flying the flag a night, it MUST be illuminated. Looking for ways to light your flag? We have all the information you need here!

4. The Stars and Stripes flies in battle for the first time in a Revolutionary Battle on September 3rd, 1777.

5. There are actually six American flags on the moon. Five of them are still standing and have been photographed, however, the flag left by Neil Armstrong from Apollo 11 was said to have blown over after takeoff.

6. After a tragedy or death, the flag is flown at half staff for 30 days. It's called "half-staff" on land and "half-mast" on a ship. Outside the days of remembrance, the President can call for additional days throughout the year.

7. Flag should never be thrown away. Instead, it is proper to retire all old flags when they become damaged, frayed, or faded. Common practice is burning or being buried, or ship them into local businesses that offer to retire flags for you. If you need a flag retired, give us a call and we will happily take care of that for you!

8. If you like to study flags, then you are a Vexillologist!

9. The colors of the flag have meaning. Red stands for hardiness and valor. White symbolizes purity and innocence. Blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. We are not the only country that uses colors to represent history, here are some other fun facts about other countries’ flags.

10. An American flag should never touch the floor or the ground. Between raising and lower the flag, or transporting the flag, it should never touch the ground.

11. When displayed on a wall or window the blue field, or the canton, should always be in the upper left corner.

12. The military folds the flag with 13 folds and each fold has a very symbolic meaning. Check out each of the folds and their meaning here.

13. 50 flags fly 24 hours a day around the Washington monument. Yes, they are all light at night too! 

14. About 95% of all U.S. flags are made in the U.S.A. Bonus fun fact: ALL of our American Flags at Eagle Mountain Flag and Flagpole are made in the U.S.A!

15. The U.S. flag always flies at the top of a staff or flagpole above any other flag.

Want to Know More About The History?

There is a ton of stuff to learn about the American Flag and all it's been through. To get started check out The History of The American Flag.