Grand Union Flag to be Raised January 1st

Ceremony Commemorates 233rd Anniversary of Flag Raising on Prospect Hill by General George Washington Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Historic Preservation Commission Director Brandon Wilson announced that the 233rd annual "Grand Union" flag raising ceremony at Prospect Hill Park will be held on Thursday, January 1, 2009 at 12:00 Noon. The ceremony commemorates the raising of the nation's first official flag, featuring thirteen red and white horizontal stripes, atop Prospect Hill Tower by General George Washington and his troops during their encampment in the Revolutionary War in 1776. The annual ceremony will begin at City Hall, 93 Highland Avenue, with a procession to Prospect Hill, led by "General Washington" on horseback. The day's program will also include songs, readings, participants from the Charlestown militia as well as the Ancient and Honorable Company first chartered in 1638. The American Legion Post 19 Honor Guard will lead a military salute as a commemorative flag is raised atop the Prospect Hill Tower. All interested participants are welcome to attend in traditional 18th century dress. Light refreshments will be served. Miniature replicas of the Grand Union Flag, tri-corner hats, historic Somerville books and afghans, to commemorate the historic event will be available for purchase. For more information, or to receive a free, commemorative program, contact Brandon Wilson, Executive Director at the Historic Preservation Commission at 617-625-6600 ext. 2532 or Bwilson@somervillema.gov.