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Fredericksburg, Virginia (U.S.)

image by Randy Young, 29 October 2000

Description of the flag
City Seal

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Virginia

Description of the flag

The picture and information about this flag was sent to me by the office of the city administrator. In 1971, the City of Fredericksburg adopted a series of heraldic images and symbols based on ones created and suggested by Colonel Harry D. Temple, USA (ret.). Col. Temple suggested that the city adopt first a coat-of-arms that he designed. Following the coat-of-arms were a badge, seal, flag, mayoral chain, mayoral mace, and distinguished service medal all based on the design of the arms. The official description of the flag, included in the documents I was sent:

"By tradition the heraldic flag, as a medieval banner, uses the design of the shield of the coat of arms spread over its entire surface.

The flag which is illustrated here, in rayon banner cloth, would be used for formal display purposes, as on the stage of an auditorium and with the stand of colors behind the Mayor's and other high ranking city officials' desks. For this particular use the dimensions of four feet four inches by five feet six inches have been used. Nearly two hundred years of ceremonial use by the Army has proved that size to be the move practical and popular.

For outdoor flying this same design may be adapted to any size or proportions which may be desired. The fringe would be omitted and nylon wool bunting would be used.

The basic design could be used for trumpet banners for a City band or ceremonial unit.

When this design is appliquéd through the flag both sides at the same time, a proper presentation will result on each side. There will be no 'backwards' problem on the reverse side other than the cross on the Crown of Charlemagne, which really is inconsequential for flag use.

As a substitute for the metallic tinctures of the coat of arms, yellow represents gold (Or) and white represents silver (argent). This is an accepted practice in heraldry."

There is also a description of the symbolism in the coat of arms, which is proper here for understanding the design of the flag:

"The two feathers are taken from the Badge of the Prince of Wales to memorialize Prince Frederick, the eldest son of King George II of England, for whom the City of Fredericksburg was named. The feathers are gold for the glory with which Fredericksburg has honored its proud heritage.

The small red shield with a golden Crown of Charlemagne is taken from the arms of the Royal House of Hanover in commemoration of the naming of the early streets of the City for members of that royal family.

The background of the shield is silver, symbolizing the idealism and sacrifice of our Revolutionary War, in recognition of the many patriots which the City of Fredericksburg furnished to that cause.

The blue saltire is from the Battle Flag of the Confederate Army, as a memorial to Fredericksburg's epic role in the War Between the States."

Randy Young, 29 October 2000

City Seal

image by Randy Young, 29 October 2000