The Bennington Flag

The Bennington Flag is a historic flag from the American Revolution that was carried by American forces at the Battle of Bennington on August 16, 1777. It is widely recognized for its distinctive design featuring 13 white stars arranged in a circle around a larger central star on a blue background. The flag was also often referred to as the “Star-Spangled Banner” and is considered to be an early precursor to the current flag of the United States.


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Battle of Bennington, c. 1900

The designer of the Bennington Flag is unknown. The flag was most likely made by a local seamstress or flag maker and its design was probably influenced by the flags and banners used by American forces during the American Revolution. The design of the flag, with its circle of stars, was considered innovative and became a popular symbol of American independence and resistance to British rule. Despite its historical significance, little is known about the person or people who created the Bennington Flag.

The Bennington Flag holds significant historical and cultural importance as a symbol of American independence and the early struggle for freedom from British rule. The flag was flown by American forces at the Battle of Bennington, a pivotal battle during the American Revolution that took place on August 16, 1777 in what is now Vermont. The victory at Bennington was seen as a significant turning point in the war and was a morale boost to the American forces.

A Symbol of American Independence

In addition to its historical significance, the design of the Bennington Flag with its circle of stars around a central star became a popular symbol of American independence and helped to establish a national identity separate from British rule. The design of the flag was considered innovative and served as a precursor to the current design of the American flag, which features stars in a circle as well.

graphic representation of the Bennington Flag with 13 stripes and 76 in the blue field
Bennington Flag

Overall, the Bennington Flag is a symbol of American bravery and determination in the face of adversity and continues to be revered as an important part of American history and culture.

The original Flag is believed to have been lost or destroyed over the centuries and its current whereabouts are unknown. The flag was likely made of cloth and, like many flags from the American Revolution, would have been subject to wear and tear over time. Additionally, many historic flags from this era were destroyed or lost during the war or in the centuries that followed.

Despite the loss of the original flag, several replicas of the Bennington Flag have been made over the years and are preserved in museums and historical collections. These replicas serve as reminders of the flag’s historical significance and continue to be a symbol of American independence and bravery.