Betsy Ross

BETSY ROSS

The famous American that I am writing about is Betsy Ross. Betsy Ross is best known for making the first American flag.  Elizabeth "Betsy" Ross was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1752.  

When Betsy was growing up attending school, she learned how to sew. When she finished school she got a job as an upholsterer.  She met her husband John who was also an upholsterer.  They got married and had their own upholstery business.  As an upholsterer, Betsy learned the art of needlepoint and became very good at it.  She also did some work for President George Washington  sewing buttons on his jackets. 

During the American Revolutionary War, Betsy began making flags. When her husband was killed in the war, she took over the business.  Betsy Ross made the first American flag after receiving a visit from President George Washington.

Betsy Ross endured many years of hardship but still remained an independent hardworking woman and set a great example for women.  The house where she is said the have made the flag is one of the most popular sites to visit in Philadelphia today.