As the United States marks a quarter-millennium since its founding, historical institutions in Philadelphia are bringing renewed attention to the figures and events central to the nation's earliest chapter. Among these is Betsy Ross, a young upholsterer whose workshop became the setting for what many regard as the creation of America's first flag.

According to historical tradition, in the summer of 1776, members of a congressional committee tasked with designing a national flag approached Ross with their commission. The committee reportedly included George Washington. The Betsy Ross House museum is now using the 250th anniversary milestone to re-examine and present this account to modern audiences, situating the flag's creation within the broader context of the Revolutionary period.