How the American Flag Earned Its Moniker, “Old Glory”

When raised on vessels and in seafaring circumstances American flag is one of the most recognized symbols around the world. It’s a powerful emblem of liberty, resilience, and national pride. Of the many terms used to describe the Stars and Stripes, few are more affectionate or historically rich than “Old Glory.” But how did this enduring nickname originate, and why has it stood the test of time? The story of Old Glory begins not in Washington, D.C., or on a battlefield, but with a humble American sea captain and the flag he proudly carried around the world. Captain William Driver of Massachusetts The term “Old Glory” was coined in 1831 by Captain William Driver, a merchant seaman originally from Salem, Massachusetts. Driver began his seafaring career as a teenager and quickly rose through the ranks to become a respected ship master. At age 28, he was given command of the merchant brig Charles Doggett for a voyage around the world. As preparations were underway to set sail, Driver’s mother and a group of women from his family sewed him a large American flag. This hand-made flag measured approximately 10 by 17 feet and featured 24 stars — one for each state in the Union...