06/14/2026
Today, on Flag Day, we celebrate more than a symbol. We celebrate the story of our nation and the generations of Americans who have served under its colors.
As part of the 2026 Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program and in recognition of America's upcoming 250th birthday, we incorporated six historic versions of the American flag throughout our display. In the nearly 250-year history of our nation, there have been 28 official versions of the American flag. We selected six that represent pivotal moments in our country's journey and the generations of service members who helped shape and defend it.
⭐1776 The Betsy Ross flag is an early American design featuring 13 alternating red and white stripes and 13 white stars arranged in a circle on a blue canton. These stars represent the first thirteen states, formed from the former British colonies. While its origin is historically debated, it remains an iconic symbol of the American Revolution and national unity.
⭐1795 A flag with 15 stars and 15 stripes is the historical United States flag that flew from 1795 to 1818. Known as the Star-Spangled Banner or Fort McHenry Flag, it was authorized to welcome Vermont (the 14th state) and Kentucky (the 15th state) to the Union. It is said to have inspired Francis Scott Key to compose our National Anthem.
⭐1851-1858 Most variations of the flag were implemented by adding a star for each new state, as they joined the Union. The 31-star U.S. flag became the official flag of the United States on July 4, 1851, following the admission of California as the 31st state. This flag flew for seven years until July 3, 1858, when a 32nd star was added for Minnesota.
⭐1861-1865 Civil War Era Flags – Two flags on particular note are the two variations that flew through the course of the Civil War. The 33-star flag was flying over the battle of Fort Sumter, the fateful attack that would mark the start of the Civil War. As southern states seceded from the Union, many thought the stars should go with them, but President Abraham Lincoln – having faith in the restoration of the Union - refused to remove them. In 1863, following West Virginia's split from Virginia, the ensign was officially changed to the 35-star flag.
⭐1912-1959 48-Star Flag – Many versions of our flag have been carried into battle over the years. The 48-star flag - the Flag of the Greatest Generation - was the official flag of the United States for 47 years between 1912 and 1959. Adopted to welcome New Mexico and Arizona, it holds deep historical significance as the banner flown by U.S. troops during both World Wars and the Korean War.
⭐1960-Present 50-Star Flag – The current 50-star American flag features 13 horizontal stripes and a blue canton containing 50 white stars. Officially adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii’s statehood, it holds the record as the longest-serving U.S. flag design in history.
As we look toward America's 250th anniversary, may we remember the sacrifices made under each of these flags and the heroes whose legacy continues to inspire our community.
The changes in our flag mirror the changes our nation has experienced throughout its history. Like our country itself, the American flag remains a living symbol of growth, resilience, and progress. As America continues its journey, future generations may one day see new chapters added to that story.
Have you spotted all six historic flags? As we prepare to celebrate America's 250th birthday, we invite you to look for each one in downtown Salinas. Every flag tells a story of our nation's growth and the generations of service members who defended the freedoms it represents.
Thank you to all who have worn and continue to wear the uniform and defended our nation's colors.
