Betsy Ross: Seamstress, Patriot, and American Icon

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Betsy Ross, a beloved figure in American history, on January 30, 1836, at the age of 84. Betsy Ross, née Elizabeth Griscom, was born on January 1, 1752, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was a gifted seamstress whose skills and dedication left an indelible mark on the nation.

Betsy was the eighth of seventeen children born to Samuel Griscom, a carpenter, and Rebecca James Griscom. Raised in a Quaker family, she learned the art of needlework from a young age, which later became her life’s vocation. In 1773, Betsy married John Ross, a fellow upholsterer, but their union was tragically short-lived as John died in 1775, just two years into their marriage.

Betsy’s resilience and strength shone through as she continued to run their upholstery business on her own amidst the turmoil of the American Revolutionary War. It was during this period that she is believed to have met with George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross, who commissioned her to create what would become the first American flag. Though the historical veracity of this event has been debated, Betsy’s role as a patriotic symbol endures.

In 1777, Betsy remarried to Joseph Ashburn, a mariner, who was captured and died in a British prison. Undeterred by hardship, she wed for a third time in 1783 to John Claypoole, a former prisoner of war. They shared many years together and had five daughters: Clarissa, Susanna, Rachel, Jane, and Harriet.

Betsy Ross’s life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family and her country. She was a woman of immense skill, perseverance, and patriotic spirit, who managed to leave an indelible legacy. Her name will forever be synonymous with the American flag, a symbol of the freedoms and values she held dear.

Betsy Ross is survived by her daughters and numerous grandchildren. She will be remembered not only for her contributions to America’s heritage but also for her resilience and grace in the face of personal tragedies. Her life and legacy serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the American people.

A private memorial service will be held by her family, with a public commemoration planned to honor her contributions to our nation’s history. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to historical preservation societies dedicated to maintaining the rich history of our nation.

May her soul rest in peace, and her memory continue to inspire generations to come.