History of Texas Flags

Fifteen flags have flown over Texas. The flag flying now over Texas, symbolizes its unique history. The most common flags recognized are the Spanish, French, Mexican, Texas, Confederate and the United States.

The not so well known flags each contained their own message, and represent their own history in Texas. Captain Scott’s Independence flag was the earliest flag to include the “lone star.” The Alamo Battle flag was a variation of the Mexican flag; 1824 replaced the Mexican emblem. Some Georgians traveled to Texas to support Texas’s independence and Joanna Troutman created a flag that contained a lone star, which contained the words "Liberty or Death;" these are the words made famous by Patrick Henry. The first official flag of Texas was created when Texas declared independence from Mexico. This flag contained the lone star. The Republic of Texas Gonzales flag was created by two women, when Mexican Troops moved north to Gonzales. The Texas Navy flag was created by Charles Hawkins; he was the first Commodore of the Texas Navy. The first lone star flag was created by Sarah Dodson, as her husband marched with the Texas Volunteers; they carried this flag with them to San Antonio.

In 1836, the new government under Texas President David Burnett, approved a new design for the National flag of Texas. On a blue background with the lone star in the center, some stars were gold and some white. In 1837, the Republic of Texas was recognized by the United States as an independent nation. In 1839, as Texas gained its independence, they decided they needed a better flat. This new flag is the flag we now recognize as the Texas flag. The lone star is the symbol of Texas.