As we celebrate the 4th of July, I wanted to know about the story of “Old Glory”.
So, I did a bit of research and found the story behind the words of “Old Glory”.
The origin of the nickname Old Glory goes back to a 19th century American Sea Captain, William Driver. In 1824, his mother and group of Salem ladies sew a homemade flag with 24 stars. Above all, his mom wanted to commemorate his appointment as a master mariner. Not to mention, she was proud that he also got command of a ship, the Charles Doggett at the age of 21!
Beginning of Story on “Old Glory”
During his career as a merchant Mariner, flew the flag at sea. According to folklore, Driver upon raising the flag up the mainmast he would lift his hat and exclaim; “My ship, my country, and my flag, Old Glory”.
Over a 20-year sea career, he sailed around the globe to include going to China, India, and Gibraltar. In fact, he even ferried survivors of the HNS Bounty from Tahiti to Pitcairn Island under the flag. As a result, Driver wrote “It (flag) has ever been my staunch companion and protection. Savages and heathens, lowly and oppressed, hailed and welcomed it at the far ends of the world. Then, why should it not be called Old Glory”. No doubt, he was extremely proud to take a part of America to uncharted territories and that a piece of his home went wherever he went.
When his wife died of cancer, Driver gave up sailing and moved to Nashville, Tennessee to raise his children. His love for the flag was as strong as it was when he was a seaman. In fact, Drive flew his flag during holidays “rain or shine. Not to mention that the flag was so big (17′ x 10′) that he would attach it to a rope from his attic window. Then he would stretch the flag using a pulley and needed to cross the street to secure it to a locus tree.
Civil War Endangers ‘Old Glory”
During the Civil War in the Nashville area, the most popular symbol of Union loyalty was Driver’s worn and imperiled flag. However, during secession, his flag became of the source of contention. Specifically, the Governor of Tennessee and guerrilla groups loyal to the Confederation attempted to seize Driver’s flag. However, Driver, sensing that the flag was in imminent danger, hid the flag inside a quilt.
When Nashville was captured by Union troops, Driver sought out the commanding Gen William “Bull” Nelson. Driver told the Union General “This flag I hope to see hoisted on the flagstaff in place of the (damned) Confederate flag set there by the (damned) rebel governor, Isham G. Harris. I have had hard work to save it; my house has been searched for it more than once.”
Story of Old Glory Documented
Driver’s daughter, Mary Roland published her account of the flag in a book titled “Old Glory, The True Story”. Her book provided documentary evidence that she possessed her father’s original flag.
To this day, this documentary evidence is considered stronger evidence than the controversy created with her assertion that she possess Driver’s “Old Glory flag.
In 1922, Mary Roland presented her Old Glory as a gift to President Harding. President Harding, in turn, donated the flag to the Smithsonian where it still resides today!
Have a Great of 4th of July everyone. Enjoy this day. There is something 
about barbequing great steaks and burgers with family while reflecting on the birth of our nation!
For those who love to display Old Glory or are Flag enthusiasts, go here to check out the extensive variety of Flags available!