So you think you know the American Flag? Let’s put your knowledge to the test! Here are a few misconceptions and facts surrounding Old Glory. Good luck! Let us know how you did! You can find the Correct answers are at the bottom.

Questions

1. Who created the first US national flag featuring stars and stripes?
   1. George Washington
   2. Betsy Ross
   3. Benjamin Franklin
   4. We’re not 100% sure
2. Gold fringe on a flag indicates:
   1. Nothing in particular…it’s just decoration
   2. Military jurisdiction over an event
   3. The property is owned by the US Federal Government
   4. The country is at war
3. According to the US Code, American flags unfit for continued service should be
   1. Cut up into separate colors
   2. Destroyed in a dignified way
   3. Thrown away
   4. Created into something new
4. How many official US flag designs have there been?
   1. 13
   2. 27
   3. 32
   4. 37
5. How many folds does it take to properly fold a flag?
   1. 13
   2. 25
   3. 50
   4. It depends on the size of the flag
6. According to the US Code, the US flag should never be…
   1. Hoisted quickly
   2. Flown in inclement weather
   3. Flown at night
   4. Worn as clothing

Answers

1. The fact of the matter is, we don’t really know the full story about who created the first flag. Even though we call it the Betsy Ross, the actual history is a little murky and debatable. See the original story of Old Glory here!
2. The fringe on some flags is just purely for decoration. You will often see them in government buildings or at official ceremonies, but there is no official reason for the fringe
3. The United States Flag Code OFFICIALLY states “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem of display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” Read more about some flag FAQ’s and how to retire a flag here!
4. Believe it or not, we went through 26 other versions before landing on the current flag we have today! Today’s flag is lucky #27. Bonus question: Do you know which star was the most recent addition?
5. There is an official 13-step process to fold the flag properly. Bonus question: Did you know that each fold has a meaning behind it? Find out how to fold a flag plus the meaning behind each step here.
6. According to the US Code, the flag should never be worn as clothing. You can fly the flag at night with proper lighting, and while you're allowed to fly the flag in inclement weather, it might shorten the lifespan of your flag.