The Story of Old Glory

by Albert I. Mayer

A history of the American flag as it developed from the Union Jack into a totally different symbol of a new nation.

Genres: History, American History, Childrens

30 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A young people’s story about the history of the flag of the United States of America.

[Luisa Knight · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cornerstones of Freedom books, first published in the 1960s, are very popular among homeschooling families who are looking for brief overviews of important historical events or famous people. They are well-illustrated and only about 32 pages each for a concise, focused read.

I have found them to be a good, easy read. To my knowledge, they are fairly accurate (I’ve found one or two inaccuracies). They are a good series and one that I would recommend.

Ages: 8-12
Reading Level: 4th – 6th grades
Pages: approx. 30-32 each

Cleanliness: nothing to note.

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[Tommy Kiedis · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was just one sentence in the Congressional Journal of June 14, 1777, but that sentence gave life to a flag that symbolized and helped unify a budding nation.

RESOLVED, that the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation. Congressional Journal, June 14, 1777

The Story of Old Glory by Albert I. Mayer and illustrated by Tom Dunnington provides an essential introduction to the history of flags employed at various times in Colonial America and, more importantly, how the official flag of the United States came into existence.

This is a book that serves both children and adults alike. A brief, delightful, and instructive read.

Of interesting note:

The Flag decided upon by Congress in 1777 was for maritime purposes.

The Betsy Ross story was first told by her grandson in 1870!

The Star-Spangled Banner, inspired by twenty-two-year-old Francis Scott Key in 1814, did not become the national anthem until 1931.

“The thing the flag stands for were created by the experiences of a people. Everything it stands for was written by their lives.”

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

9-30-12 This is an interesting book about out flag. Even though we all know about our flag, it's nice to learn some extra information.

[Lindy Schlehlein]

A little tedious with details, but a flag doesn't typically go on adventures.