Historical U.S. Flags

Explore the Evolution of Old Glory through historical U.S. flags with earlier star counts. These designs help tell the story of a growing Union and make useful displays for homes, classrooms, historical programs and civic events. Choose the period and design first, then compare the size, material and mounting details of the individual flag.

How the Stars and Stripes changed

The early national flag had thirteen stars and thirteen stripes. The fifteen-star, fifteen-stripe flag represented the fifteen states in the Union in 1795. In 1818, Congress returned the stripe count to thirteen while retaining one star for each state. The Smithsonian explains the fifteen-star flag and the return to thirteen stripes.

A statehood anniversary and a star-addition date are different milestones. The rule for new stars makes the change effective on the next July 4 after admission. That timing means a flag associated with a state may date later than the state’s birthday. For the rule itself, see 4 U.S.C. section 2.

Connect the flag with the state’s story

Pair a historical flag display with the people and events behind statehood. Read our histories of Vermont, Tennessee and Ohio. Label the admission date and the flag’s period separately so a modern commemoration does not imply that the pictured flag flew at the admission ceremony.

Choose a historical U.S. flag for your display

• Match the historical design. Check the star count, star arrangement, stripe count and period described in the listing. A star count alone does not identify every detail of a particular surviving flag.
• Choose the right size. Measure the display area and follow your pole manufacturer’s size and load guidance. Leave room for the flag to move clear of buildings, trees and the ground.
• Check the exact construction. Review the listed fabric, sewn or printed details, attachment finish and country of origin. Specifications and availability can differ by design and size.
• Plan for care. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and take down an outdoor display when conditions exceed its intended use.

Historical U.S. flag questions

Are these antique flags?

These are modern reproductions for display, not original historical artifacts. For a period exhibit, compare the particular design with the historical evidence relevant to your setting.

Does every admission create a new star-count design immediately?

No. Admission and the effective date of a flag change are separate. More than one state can enter the Union before the next July 4, so a display should not assume that every intervening star count was an official national flag.

For colonial, Revolutionary-era and other designs beyond this star-count collection, browse our broader Historical Flags category.