Who Designed the American Flag?

You might think of Betsy Ross when it comes to the creation of the American flag. But there’s also the enduring claim that Bob Heft, a high school senior from Lancaster, Ohio, was behind the first 50-star version of the flag. Heft, who was just 17 at the time, reportedly sent his design to the White House for approval.

“Of course, I designed our flag,” Heft stated, noting, “This is more than just cloth, it’s American fabric.” His interesting story is explored in the premiere episode of “Crazy American History with Eric Shawn,” which is now available on Fox Nation.

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Heft created his own version of the flag as part of a history project in high school. In 1959, he sent the flag design to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, hoping it would be adopted once Hawaii became the 50th state.

Wilton B. Parsons, who served as Eisenhower’s chief of staff, acknowledged receipt of Heft’s design and sent a note of thanks. Heft was adamant that the president had chosen his design. He wrote, “I created and flew America’s first 50-star flag,” explaining that his flag first waved on March 7, 1959, and that there was no previous record of a 50-star flag. He claimed it flew not only at the White House but also at the governor’s mansion and the state capitol in Ohio.

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Heft, who passed away in 2009, dedicated much of his life to sharing his story, speaking to veterans, school groups, and journalists about his role in creating the 50-star flag. However, it raises a few questions: Is his account entirely accurate? And why does he remain a relatively lesser-known figure?

Interestingly, Heft had already crafted the 50-star flag before its official adoption and managed to fly it in at least 40 state capitols between 1960 and 1962. These included major states like New York, California, and Texas. In fact, it was displayed at the Texas State Capitol for five hours on October 5, 1960, although weather cut its showcase short.

Heft recounted a conversation with President Eisenhower, where the president allegedly informed him, “I wanted to let you know that I have chosen your flag to be the official flag of our country.” Ohio Governor Michael DeSalle even wrote to Heft, stating, “I am pleased to confirm your story that your flag was the first 50-star flag flown on Ohio property.”

But it does prompt one to wonder—was Heft truly the originator, or were officials misled? This is a tale about a teenager who devoted his life to the symbol of his country.

Final Thoughts

Make sure to check out what unfolds regarding his flag in the concluding moments of the episode! Watch “Eric Shawn’s Crazy American History” now streaming on Fox Nation.