Betsy Ross, born as Elizabeth Griscom in 1752 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a notable figure in American history.
While her exact role in the creation of the American flag is the subject of debate and legend, she is often celebrated as the woman who stitched the first American flag with its iconic thirteen stars in a circle.
Betsy Ross’s life spanned a pivotal period in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the early 19th century.
Her story is intertwined with the founding of the United States, and her legacy endures as a symbol of American patriotism and ingenuity.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1752 | Betsy Ross is born as Elizabeth Griscom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. |
| 1773 | Betsy Ross marries John Ross and starts an upholstery business. |
| 1775-1783 | American Revolutionary War takes place, and John Ross joins the Pennsylvania militia. |
| 1776 | Betsy Ross is visited by a committee, including George Washington, George Ross, and Robert Morris, to create the first American flag. |
| 1783 | The Treaty of Paris is signed, ending the American Revolutionary War. |
| 1793 | Betsy Ross marries her second husband, Joseph Ashburn. |
| 1812 | Betsy Ross marries her third husband, John Claypoole. |
| 1836 | Betsy Ross passes away in Philadelphia at the age of 84. |
Timeline of Betsy Ross
1752 – Betsy Ross is born as Elizabeth Griscom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
She is the eighth of 17 children in her family. Growing up in a large Quaker household, she received basic education and learned important domestic skills.
1773 – Betsy Ross marries John Ross and starts an upholstery business
The couple establishes their own upholstery business in Philadelphia. This period marked the beginning of their married life and entrepreneurial journey.
John Ross’s profession as an upholsterer likely contributed to Betsy’s skills in sewing and textiles.
1775-1783 – American Revolutionary War takes place, and John Ross joins the Pennsylvania militia
The American Revolutionary War unfolds, and it has a significant impact on Betsy Ross’s life. John Ross joins the Pennsylvania militia to serve in the war effort, leaving Betsy to manage their upholstery business on her own.
Also Read: Betsy Ross Accomplishments
This period was marked by tremendous turmoil and uncertainty as the colonies fought for their independence from British rule. Betsy Ross and her family, like many others, likely experienced the challenges and sacrifices associated with wartime.
1776 – Betsy Ross is visited by a committee, including George Washington, George Ross, and Robert Morris, to create the first American flag
In June of this year, according to legend, a significant event took place in Betsy Ross’s life. She was visited by a committee of three prominent figures:
- George Washington
- George Ross (her late husband’s uncle)
- Robert Morris
They presented her with a design for a new American flag, which would represent the thirteen American colonies in their fight for independence. The design featured thirteen stars in a circle and thirteen stripes.
Betsy Ross, with her background in upholstery and sewing, was asked to assist in making the flag. She is said to have suggested a change to the design, proposing that the stars should have five points instead of six.
Also Read: Betsy Ross Facts
It’s from this legendary account that the story of Betsy Ross sewing the first American flag with thirteen stars and thirteen stripes originates.
1783 – The Treaty of Paris is signed, ending the American Revolutionary War
This year marked the end of the American Revolutionary War with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. The treaty officially recognized the United States as an independent nation, free from British rule.
Betsy Ross, having played her part in creating the American flag, would have witnessed the culmination of the colonists’ struggle for independence.
1793 – Betsy Ross marries her second husband, Joseph Ashburn
Betsy Ross married her second husband, Joseph Ashburn, who was a sea captain. This marriage brought new experiences and challenges to her life.
Unfortunately, her husband’s career as a sea captain would lead to tragic events when he was captured by the British during a voyage. He died in a British prison in 1802, leaving Betsy a widow for the second time.
1812 – Betsy Ross marries her third husband, John Claypoole
Betsy Ross married for the third time, this time to John Claypoole, a mariner. This marriage came nearly two decades after the death of her second husband, Joseph Ashburn.
Betsy and John Claypoole’s union marked a new chapter in her life. John’s occupation as a mariner likely brought its own set of challenges and uncertainties, given the nature of seafaring during that era.
1836: Betsy Ross passes away in Philadelphia at the age of 84
On January 30, 1836, Betsy Ross passed away in Philadelphia at the age of 84. Her death marked the end of a long and eventful life that had witnessed the birth of a new nation and the many changes and challenges of the early United States.
Betsy Ross’s life spanned a significant period in American history, from her birth during the mid-18th century to her passing in the early 19th century. Her involvement in the creation of the American flag, whether the legend is entirely accurate or not, remains an enduring part of American folklore and history. Her passing marked the end of a life filled with personal triumphs and tragedies against the backdrop of a nation’s struggle for independence and its subsequent growth and development.