A flag unfurled

A photograph of the Sanitary Commission tents at Camp Letterman shows a large flag displayed. Learn more about Gettysburg Surgeons at www.gettysburgsurgeons.com.

Flag Raised on Round Top

Gettysburg newspapers reported “the unfurling of the “glorious old Stars and Stirpes” from the summit of “Round Top.”

The flag was arranged by patriotic friends of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, through the efforts of Mr. and Mrs. Holstein. At 2:30 pm on October 20, 1863, the 25-foot flag was hoisted 80 feet high amid cheers and the booming of cannon.

Dr. Henry May of Camp Letterman delivered an eloquent and patriotic address along with David Wills of Gettysburg and John Seymour of New York, followed by patriotic songs. After a bad storm broke the pole on November 8, plans were reported to replace the flag the next week by officers and soldiers of the Camp.