Flag Day: A Presidential Legacy in Our Backyard

Woodrow Wilson in Preparedness Parade, Washington, D.C. Date unknown.

Walking through the campus of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library each day, I'm often reminded of the profound impact our 28th president had on American traditions that we often take for granted. As June 14th approaches, Flag Day serves as a poignant example of Wilson's enduring influence on how we commemorate our nation's symbols.

On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress officially adopted the Stars and Stripes as our national flag, declaring 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."

This moment was practical yet symbolic. Our young nation needed a banner to rally around, something to represent their unity in the face of overwhelming odds. Those thirteen stars and stripes weren't just fabric; they were hope stitched together.

Fast forward to 1916, where we once again faced a moment of national unity. Europe was engulfed in the Great War, and America stood at a crossroads. On May 30 of that year, Wilson issued a presidential proclamation establishing June 14 as Flag Day, calling upon all Americans to display the flag and reflect on its meaning.

Wilson’s Flag Day proclamation wasn't just ceremonial; it was part of his broader vision for creating national moments of unity. Wilson also established Mother's Day as an official observance, revived the tradition of presidents delivering the State of the Union address in person to Congress, and later proclaimed the first Armistice Day, which is now known as Veterans Day. His approach was consistent: asking Americans to pause and reflect on the ideals that had bound them together during uncertain times. Wilson understood that in moments of division, shared symbols and ceremonies could serve as bridges.

Wilson's proclamation of Flag Day remained unofficial until 1949, when President Harry S. Truman signed legislation making Flag Day an official observance.

As I meet with visitors from all over the world, I’m struck by how Flag Day represents something uniquely American: our ability to take a symbol and invest it with meaning that transcends politics, region, or background. The American Flag has witnessed wars, social movements, moon landings, and countless quiet moments of patriotic reflection.

Judd Bankert portraying woodrow wilson in the 4th of july parade in staunton, va in front of the pierce-arrow limousine.

Wilson's establishment of Flag Day wasn't about mandating patriotism but about creating space for it. Let’s use this day to reflect on those stars and stripes and remember that despite our differences, we share something profound: a commitment to the ideals of liberty, justice, and self-governance.

Whether you're a history buff or simply someone who appreciates the symbols that unite us, Flag Day offers a moment to pause and reflect. President Wilson gave us a day to remember that our flag represents not just our past, but our ongoing promise to live up to the ideals it represents.

By Robin von Seldeneck, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library