MINOR TOPICS
THE FIRST U. S. FLAG
The first Stars and Stripes were displayed at Fort Schuyler (the present Rome, N. Y.), August 5, 1777. This much every schoolboy is supposed [it is very much of a supposition, however, how many in the average High School could tell the story off-hand—Ed.] to know. What is not generally known is that this historic flag is still in existence; being in the possession of Mrs. Abram Lansing, of Albany, N. Y., a grand-daughter of Colonel Gansevoort, and who possesses also the original of the following letter:
Poughkeepsie, 29th August, 1778.
Col. Peter Gansevoort,
Fort Schuyler.
Dear Sir:
The great distance which your duty calls us apart obliges me at this time to give you this trouble which otherwise I would not. You may remember I was to have an order for eight yards of broadcloth on the commissary for clothing of this State, in lieu of my blue cloak which was used for colours at Fort Schuyler. An opportunity now presenting itself, I beg (you) to send me an order enclosed to Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, paymaster at Albany, or to Henry Van Vaughter, Albany, where I will receive it, and you will oblige one who will always acknowledge the same with true gratitude
Please to make my compliments to the other officers of the regiment
I am, dear Sir, your humble servant,
Abraham Swartwout, Captain.