‘Fabric Of The American Spirit’

At Wilton Historical Society

WILTON — “The flag is the symbol of our individual freedoms and national unity as well as an enduring memorial to the men and women who sacrificed so much to preserve our way of life. It is a lasting tribute to the founding fathers of our great republic and their foresight and wisdom in framing the Constitution and Bill of Rights,” says J. Richard Pierce, the owner of a massive collection of antique parade flags, part of which is on view at Wilton Historical Society until July 30.

Mr Pierce has amassed an impressive collection of parade flags, hand made or printed to wave at a special celebration, parade, holiday event or political rally. Not made for long term use, relatively few 19th Century examples have survived, which makes Mr Pierce’s large collection even more impressive.

The many forms and designs of the American flag offer a graphic and historic panoply of red, white and blue. The examples presented in “The Stars and Stripes: Fabric Of The American Spirit” collection celebrates the creativity of the anonymous makers of these flags as well as the history of America.

Wilton Historical Society Museum is at 224 Danbury Road (Route 7). Hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday 1 to 4 pm. Call 762-7257 opr visit WiltonHistorical.org for additional information.