What Does the Serapis Flag Mean?

Serapis is a name given to an unconventional, early United States ensign flown from the captured British frigate Serapis.

What does the Serapis flag symbolize?

Jones quickly had a flag created based on the sketch and the result was the Serapis Flag, which was then flown on board Serapis. This allowed the Dutch government the right to recognize the ship officially and avoid having to deal with the piracy charges.

Is the Serapis flag official?

The 111th Infantry Regiment is the only U.S. Army unit authorized to carry the Franklin (aka "Serapis") flag.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.