The Star-Spangled Banner (The Great Garrison Flag)
Textile, Historical Flag, Museum Installation • Mary Pickersgill (with her daughter Caroline, nieces Eliza and Margaret Young, and servant Grace Wisher)
Style & Movement
Early American, Folk Art / Historical Artifact
Medium & Technique
Hand-sewn wool bunting and cotton stars, archival museum display with low-oxygen environment and angled support.
Creation Period
1813
Dimensions & Format
Originally 30 x 42 feet; current dimensions are approximately 30 x 34 feet due to loss. Displayed in an horizontal/angled landscape orientation.
Subject Description
A 15-star, 15-stripe United States flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. The text projected above displays the lyrics of the poem 'Defence of Fort M'Henry', which later became the U.S. National Anthem. The flag features a blue canton with white stars and alternating red and white stripes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair (Fragile). Stabilized via extensive conservation between 1998 and 2008.
Estimated Market Value
Invaluable / Price Upon Request. As a primary national treasure, it is not subject to market sale.
Auction Estimate
Not applicable; considered a non-transferable national heirloom.
Provenance History
Commissioned by Major George Armistead (1813); remained in the Armistead family until donated to the Smithsonian Institution in 1907 by Eben Appleton.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most important cultural icons in American history. It inspired Francis Scott Key to write the National Anthem and symbolizes American perseverance during the War of 1812. It is a central object of the Smithsonian's collection.
Notable Features
Total of 15 stars and 15 stripes (reflecting the 15 states in 1795); one star is missing; multiple historical fragments were cut off as keepsakes in the 19th century; modern museum installation integrates a digital projection of Francis Scott Key's lyrics.
Condition Issues
Significant loss of material along the fly end; missing one star; visible 'V' shape cut from the flag (historical souvenir taking); fabric fatigue; light damage; and previous aggressive repair methods (1914 linen backing) which were removed during modern conservation.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled, low-light, low-oxygen (argon-filled) environment. Continued monitoring of the specialized support structure to prevent fiber stress.