Pennsylvania Colonial/Revolutionary War Flags (U.S.)

Historical

Last modified: 2005-03-12 by rick wyatt
Keywords: pennsylvania | united states | philadelphia light horse | hanover |
Links: FOTW homepage | search | disclaimer and copyright | write us | mirrors

• Philadelphia Light Horse
• Flag of the First Pennsylvania Rifles
• Hanover Associators
• 1st Pennsylvania Regiment color

See also:

• Pennsylvania
• Colonial and Revolutionary War Flags
• U.S. Historical flags

Philadelphia Light Horse
First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry

by Randy Young, 11 February 2001

Source: "Flags to Color from the American Revolution."

This flag belongs to the First Troop, Philadelphia Light Horse. The colors are listed as: "Bright yellow field, silver fringe. Union Jack as in the Continental Colors; bay horse with a white star on the forehead on the crest; gold knot and radiating ribbons on a blue shield, silver ribbons below and on the border around the shield; silver letters L.H. (Light Horse). Supporters: a rosy-cheeked Indian, his kilt with gold and red feathers, red headdress, gold quiver with blue strap, buff moccasins; an angel with bluish wing, purple robe and golden trumpet."

The narrative:

"Captain Abraham Markoe gave this flag to the troop in 1775. For many years it was believed to be the earliest flag of stripes in the United States, but close examination of the original proves that the stripes were added over the existing Union Jack canton. The 'Continental masquerading as an Indian' holding a staff with a liberty cap and the trumpeting angel symbolized liberty and fame."