The iconic American flag, with its 13 stripes representing the original colonies and 50 stars symbolizing each U.S. state, holds a special place in the hearts of Americans. Every Fourth of July, the stars and stripes are proudly displayed across the country, embodying the principles of freedom and unity. While many know of the flag’s historical significance, there is a lesser-known story behind its nickname, “Old Glory.”
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The nickname “Old Glory” can be attributed to 19th-century sea captain William Driver, whose remarkable tale was brought to light in a Smithsonian special report in 2013. Born in Salem, Mass., in 1803, Driver began his seafaring career at a young age and eventually became the master mariner of his own ship, the Charles Doggett. To mark this milestone, Driver’s mother and a group of local women crafted a massive American flag for his ship, which he affectionately named “Old Glory.”
As Driver navigated the waters, he proudly flew the flag, adorned with 24 stars at the time, on his voyages to various destinations such as China, India, and the South Pacific. The flag, representing America to Driver, became a cherished companion on his journeys, evoking a sense of pride and patriotism. Stories of his travels, including a mission to transport survivors from the HMS Bounty mutiny, helped popularise the nickname “Old Glory” among British soldiers.
While the exact moment when Driver coined the phrase is debated, his unwavering dedication to the flag is undisputed. After retiring from the sea, Driver settled in Nashville, Tennessee, with his family and prominently displayed “Old Glory” above their store. As the Civil War erupted and Tennessee seceded from the Union, Driver, a staunch supporter of the Union cause, safeguarded the flag from Confederate attempts to seize it.
During the war, Nashville fell to Union forces in 1862, and Driver presented his treasured flag to Union commander Gen. William “Bull” Nelson as a symbol of victory and unity. The momentous occasion, marked by the unveiling of the hidden flag from within a coverlet, solidified “Old Glory” as an enduring symbol of American resilience and patriotism. The Sixth Ohio regiment, witnessing the flag’s revelation, adopted it as their regimental motto in honour of Driver’s unwavering spirit.
Following Driver’s passing in 1886, his legacy lived on through his daughter Mary Jane Roland, who gifted the original “Old Glory” to President Warren G. Harding in 1922. The flag eventually found its way to the Smithsonian Institution, where it was preserved for future generations to admire. Despite disputes over the authenticity of other flags claiming to be “Old Glory,” the Roland flag was deemed the most likely original due to its size and condition.
The story of “Old Glory” remains a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of American patriotism and the sacrifices made to uphold the values of freedom and unity. As Americans proudly hoist their flags on Independence Day and throughout the year, they carry on the legacy of William Driver and his beloved symbol of national pride.