Betsy Ross House – At the pint-sized Colonial home of Betsy Ross, who is credited with sewing the first American flag at the request of General George Washington, visitors meet Ross herself as she works in her upholstery shop. In summer, visitors can start every day in the house’s courtyard with a free colonial flag-raising at 10 a.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for children, plus $2 for the optional audio tour.
A Visit to the Betsy Ross House: Meeting America's Most Famous Flag Maker
Nestled on a charming cobblestone street in Philadelphia's historic Old City, the Betsy Ross House offers a unique and personal glimpse into the life of a Revolutionary-era craftswoman. This pint-sized Colonial home is the reputed site where Betsy Ross sewed the very first American flag. A visit here is more than just a tour of a historic house; it's an interactive experience where you can meet the legendary flag maker herself.
The Story of Betsy Ross:
The main attraction of the house is its connection to Betsy Ross, an upholsterer who, according to legend, was approached by General George Washington in 1776 to create a flag for the new nation. The story holds that she not only sewed the flag but also suggested the five-pointed star design. While historians debate the details of the legend, the house stands as a powerful tribute to her life as a working woman and a patriot during the American Revolution.
What to See and Do:
A visit to the Betsy Ross House is an intimate and engaging experience.
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Meet Betsy Ross: The highlight for many is the interactive upholstery shop on the first floor. Here, a costumed historical interpreter portraying Betsy Ross greets guests, answers questions, and shares stories about her life, her craft, and her role in the Revolution.
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Tour the Home: Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the wee, winding staircases and small rooms of the 18th-century house, which are furnished to reflect the period.
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Flag-Raising Ceremony: During the summer, visitors can start their day in the house's beautiful courtyard with a free colonial flag-raising ceremony, which typically takes place daily at 10:00 AM.
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Audio Tour: An optional audio tour is available, including a special version designed for children ages four to eight that offers lessons in Colonial life and the chance to solve "history mysteries."
Planning Your Visit:
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Location: 239 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Admission: Entry to the house is very affordable, typically around $5 for adults and $4 for children, with the audio tour available for an additional small fee.
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Accessibility: The attraction has made efforts to be accessible. The first floor is facilitated for entry, and they offer a complimentary audio tour with visual aids for visitors who may not have physical access to the entire building. "Betsy" herself has been known to greet these guests in the courtyard.
Conclusion:
The Betsy Ross House is a charming and essential stop on any tour of historic Philadelphia. It offers a unique opportunity to step out of the grand scale of Independence Hall and into the personal world of a patriot and artisan who played a legendary role in the nation's founding. It's a perfect destination for families and anyone looking for an interactive and personal connection to American history.
Sources:
- Historic Philadelphia, Inc. (Official operator of the Betsy Ross House)
- Betsy Ross House Official Website (betsyrosshouse.org)
- Visit Philadelphia (Official Tourism Website)
- The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia
- Historical accounts of Betsy Ross and the American flag