Washington's Standard

The word ‘standard’ in the 18th century meant what we today generally refer to as a flag. The purpose in the late 1700’s for a standard was exactly what it was in the centuries of warfare before that time – to signify the location of the rally point and where to organize around the leaders. Looking across the battlefield, soldiers knew where to go and where to find the commander based on the standard unfurled. George Washington’s Standard or Washington's Position was thus an unquestionable indication of his presence during a battle or among soldiers at camp. Unique to him, this almost rectangular flag with a light blue background and 13 white stars likely inspired confidence to troops under his command. Legend holds that Washington himself designed the flag; the arrangement and construction of the stars as well as its size lend credibility to that legend. At 27.5 inches by 35.5 inches, Washington’s Standard was smaller than the regimental flags. Washington likely intended to signify