Betsy Ross House – Philadelphia History

‘The American Flag – Freedom, Liberty, & Pride’

The Betsy Ross House, one of our more treasured historic sites, is surrounded by a lot of Philadelphia History. Located in Old City, it is not far from historic icons and sites such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

The Main Question

Did Betsy Ross make the American Flag? There are historians on both sides of the fence, but there are affidavits and evidence that prove that Betsy Ross made the American Flag. < click here >

In April 2009, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission officially credited Betsy Ross with making the first Stars and Stripes flag. Now, a historical marker recognizes this great accomplishment in American History and is a big part of the History of Philadelphia.

History of the Betsy Ross House

The front of the house was believed to have been built around 1740, while the rear was added 10 or 20 years later. Over the years, the building has been restored and some changes made to the original. The house itself has served as both a residence and a business to different shopkeepers and artisans throughout the years.

Betsy Ross worked in this house as a furniture upholsterer and was believed to have occupied the house from 1773 to 1785. She had three husbands throughout history, two dying because of the war. Ross is buried beneath the giant elm and sycamore trees that shade the courtyard.

Location

239 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106

Phone

(215) 686-1252

Web Site

• Betsy Ross House
• Information on Betsy Ross and the Betsy Ross House

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