History and Meaning of the Fringed American Flag for 4th of July

The History and Meaning Behind the Fringed American Flag

As the 4th of July approaches, you'll start to see American flags decorating homes, businesses, cars, clothing, and more. The iconic red, white, and blue banner with 50 stars represents freedom, liberty, and the American spirit to people across the country. You may notice some American flags have an extra detail that others don't: a gold fringe along the fly end. This fringe has significance related to the flag's historical meaning. Keep reading to learn about the history of fringed American flags and what they symbolize.

Where the Fringe Flag Tradition Began

Adding a gold fringe to flags is a tradition that originated in the military. It dates back to the 19th century when the military adopted a standard design and size for the American flag. This standardization made it clear that a flag trimmed in gold fringe was an official military flag.

The fringe on these military flags serves a practical purpose as well. It prevents wear and tear along the edges so the flag can withstand being displayed outdoors in all types of weather conditions. The practice continues today across all branches of the U.S. armed forces.

When Fringed Flags Moved Beyond the Military

The meaning behind a fringed flag has expanded beyond the military over the last century. You'll see fringed flags displayed at various institutions today. For example, many courthouses fly fringed flags to represent the power and authority of the government. This practice started during World War I due to wartime restrictions on displaying fringed military flags. Courthouses requested their own fringed flags after seeing the military's versions.

Fringed flags are also common at American embassies around the globe. Like courthouses back home, American embassies need to clearly identify their authority and jurisdiction on foreign lands. Hanging the official fringed flag of the United States allows them to assert the embassy's diplomatic status.

Modern Meaning and Controversies

What does a fringed American flag mean to everyday citizens today? The gold fringe is viewed by most as purely decorative and a way to showcase patriotism. However, some groups argue that the fringe has legal significance.

The idea that fringe transforms a flag into a military or maritime version has sparked conspiracy theories. Some believe any fringed flag displayed by a civilian or government agency implies martial law or military jurisdiction. They claim that gold tassels turn the flag into a legal item, rather than a symbolic one.

This viewpoint has led some fringe flag disputes to be brought to court. However, judges have ruled there is no illegal symbolism implied by non-military use of fringed flags. One court stated, "History refutes the contention that the gold fringe has as its purpose indicating some special status."

The fringe remains simply an ornamental addition in civilian and government settings. Outside of military contexts, it does not hold any legal standing to supersede state or federal laws.

Proper Display of the American Flag with Fringe

If you choose to hang a fringed American flag this Independence Day, be sure to follow proper display protocol. Here are some guidelines:

Fly it Proudly

Make sure your flag fits the occasion. A tattered, worn fringe or faded colors will detract from the lively spirit of the 4th of July. Invest in a new fringed flag or replace the fringe if your current flag has seen better days.

Hang It Correctly

The canton (blue field of stars) should always be in the upper left when hung horizontally. If hung vertically on a pole, the canton goes on the observer's left with the fringe pointing down.

Light it Up

U.S. flags should only be displayed at night if they are properly illuminated. Allowing your fringed flag to fly 24 hours requires installing a dedicated light to shine on it when the sun goes down.

Take it Down

Be sure to take your fringed American flag down at sunset or properly light it at night. And every flag should be taken in during inclement weather to prevent damage from winds, rain, and storms.

Dispose of it Properly

When your fringed flag eventually sustains irreparable damage from being proudly displayed, the stars and stripes must be disposed of with care. Fold the flag correctly and solemnly, then burn it to ashes. Some organizations like the American Legion or Boy Scouts of America accept old flags for proper retirement ceremonies.

Celebrating Freedom with a Fringed Flag

Displaying a fringed American flag allows you to celebrate our nation's independence in style. While fringe flags have military roots, they now commonly signify patriotism and decorative flair. This 4th of July, fly your fringed flag proudly while remembering the men and women who defend it.

Happy Independence Day!

FAQs

Why do some American flags have fringe?

The fringe originated with military flags in the 19th century as a way to prevent wear and tear. It continues to be used on military flags today. Some government institutions have adopted the fringe on their flags as a symbolic connection to the military.

What does the fringe represent?

The fringe is viewed by most as purely decorative. However, some groups claim the fringe indicates martial law or military jurisdiction. But courts have ruled the fringe has no legal symbolism and is merely ornamental.

Can civilians display a fringed flag?

Yes, there are no restrictions on civilians displaying fringed American flags. It's commonly seen as a patriotic decoration and expression of American pride.

How should I hang a fringed flag correctly?

Proper display protocol involves the canton in the upper left, illuminating the flag at night, taking it down in bad weather, and retiring it solemnly when damaged.

What's the best way to dispose of a worn fringed flag?

Damaged flags should be correctly folded into a triangle, then burned until only ashes remain. You can also donate the flag to an organization like the American Legion for a retirement ceremony.