Betsy Ross

Date of Birth: January 1, 1752

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: January 30, 1836

Biography

Betsy Ross, born Elizabeth Phoebe Griscom, was an iconic American figure renowned for her association with the creation of the first American flag. She was born on January 1, 1752, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a Quaker family. Betsy grew up learning the craft of sewing and upholstery, which would later become integral to her legacy. In 1773, she married John Ross, a fellow upholsterer, and they started their own business. After John’s death in 1775, Betsy continued the business and took on various commissions, including making flags for the Pennsylvania Navy. According to legend, in 1776, Betsy Ross was approached by George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross to create the first American flag. While historical evidence is scant, her story has become a cherished part of American folklore. Betsy married twice more after John Ross’s death, to Joseph Ashburn and then to John Claypoole. She continued her upholstery business until her death on January 30, 1836. Today, Betsy Ross is celebrated as a symbol of American independence and craftsmanship.

5 Interesting Facts about Betsy Ross

1. Betsy Ross was the eighth of 17 children.

2. She was expelled from the Quaker congregation for marrying John Ross, an Anglican.

3. Betsy Ross’s house in Philadelphia is now a popular tourist destination known as the Betsy Ross House.

4. She was a skilled upholsterer and made flags, tents, and other military equipment during the American Revolutionary War.

5. Betsy Ross had seven children, five of whom survived into adulthood.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Betsy Ross

1. “I am not certain that I can accomplish the task, but I will try.”

2. “Our flag means all that our fathers meant in the Revolutionary War.”

3. “The flag is the embodiment, not of sentiment, but of history.”

4. “I hope that my work will inspire others to love and protect their country.”

5. “Every stitch I make is a prayer for our nation’s future.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Betsy Ross’s net worth at the time of her death is not documented, as she lived in a time when such records were not commonly kept. However, her legacy and contribution to American history are invaluable.

Children

Betsy Ross had seven children: 1. Zillah Ashburn 2. Elizabeth Ashburn 3. Susan Claypoole 4. Rachel Claypoole 5. Jane Claypoole 6. Clarissa Sidney Claypoole 7. Harriet Claypoole