The American flag, the Stars, and Stripes was flown, supposedly for the first time in a minor skirmish on this date in 1777. Colonial forces under the command of General William Maxwell were defeated by a combined force of British and Hessian at a place called Cooch's Bridge in Maryland. Maxwell ordered his men to hoist the flag as the took on the advanced guard of the British Army. Maxwell's force of infantry and cavalry were forced to retreat to General Washington's main force at Brandywine, Pennsylvania.
Some historians argue that the flag was not flown there as stated by historian Edward. W. Cooch. Cooch stated further that the flag was then flown about a week later at the battle of Brandywine on September 11.
Read Full Article »