Politics & Government

Riverdale Park Hoisting 15-Star Flag Thursday to Commemorate War of 1812

The ceremony will take place at 7:15 a.m. outside of Town Hall.

A little piece of history is set to debut this Thursday morning above Riverdale Park Town Hall.

At 7:15 a.m., the town will raise a 15-star version of the American flag on the pole outside of its municipal offices—a nod to the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.

The so-called Star Spangled Banner—which also features 15 stripes—flew above Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write what eventually became the lyrics for the national anthem.

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At the urging of Councilmember David Lingua, the through 2014 in lieu of the modern 50-star flag.

"We are proud to be a part of the War of 1812 bicentennial commemoration that is taking part around the state," Lingua said in a statement. "Riverdale Park was built on the land that was part of Riversdale House, now just around the corner from Town Hall, and we felt it was important to recognize this area’s contribution to the War of 1812."

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“It is fantastic to see communities take a small step like this to commemorate the War of 1812 in whatever method they feel is appropriate," Aaron Marcavitch, executive director of Maryland Milestones and the Anacostia Trails Heritage Area, said in a statement. "We hope to see more communities around the County fly the 15 star flag in the coming months."

Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend the flag-raising. For more information, contact Town Hall at 301-927-6381.


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