The “Providence,” of twelve guns, bearing the Flag with the Cross of Saint Andrew, presented by Rhode Island.
The “Hornet,” of fourteen guns, bearing the yellow silk Flag of Virginia, with Rattlesnake.
The “Wasp,” eight guns, bearing the yellow silk Flag of South Carolina, with a Crescent, a Beaver and a Rattlesnake, with the motto, “Don’t tread on me.”
The Dispatch vessel “Fly,” bearing a blue Flag with Red Cross of Saint George.
E. Hopkins, was Commander-in-chief of the fleet, and John Paul Jones first lieutenant. Jones was offered the command of the sloop “Providence,” which he declined, declaring that he preferred to be “Chevalier Bannaret,” to hoist and carry the bald eagle, with glittering stars and stripes, on the flagship “Alfred,” and when the Commander-in-chief, E. Hopkins, came on board of her, January 1, 1776, Jones hoisted the American Union Flag, with his own hands, which was the first time it was ever displayed on a man-of-war, and waving his navy cap swiftly overhead, shouted “Three Cheers for the Red, White and Blue! The Haughtiest of Monarchs shall bow before that Flag!!!” “Again, Three cheers for our Commander-in-Chief and the American Navy!!!” And thus he boldly evinced his lofty and chivalrous character, bravely assuming the responsibility, and his achievement of glorious deeds aided in the recognition of our Independence.
On the 14th day of February, 1778, the United States Flag was, for the first time, recognized in the fullest and completest manner by the Flag of France. Lieutenant Paul Jones, on board the brig “Independence,” at the entrance of Quiberon bay, sailed through the French fleet, commanded by Admiral La Motte Piquet, (who was keeping the coast of France clear of British cruisers,) and our National Emblem was most courteously complimented and saluted by nine guns. The American Flag was first carried around the world in 1789, by the “Columbia,” Captain Gray, of Boston, AND SALUTED IN EVERY PORT.
THE COLONY REBEL FLAGS.
