Here are a few thoughts about the California State flag from Shel Weisbach - The Museum of the San Fernando Valley.
And a few tidbits . . .
The bear flag’s design is credited to William Todd, nephew of Mary Todd Lincoln.
California’s Betsy Ross was Nancy Kelsy (or Kelsey). Kelsy deserves recognition for a second feat, as a 17-year-old member of the 1841 Bidwell-Bartleson wagon train, she and baby daughter Martha Ann were
the first females to journey to California in a covered wagon. A monument to Kelsy stands in New Cuyama, Santa Barbara County.
The single star on the California flag carried the same symbolism as Texas’ lone star – seeking union with the United States.
In 1836, Governor Juan Bautista Alvarado led a revolt against Mexican rule under a white flag with a single 5-point red star.
The likeness of the bear on the early flag, not being of the best imagery - was often likened, sorry to say, to a pig.
The current design (and refinement) traces to 1911.
1 comment:
I love these kind of comments. Shel's remarks about California's flag will surely stir the waters of Lake Balboa.
It is my understanding that the white flag with bear, when not fluttering in the breeze was easily mistaken as a flag of surrender. So, some clever fellow decided on a red strip at the bottom.
Jerry Fecht
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