Letter provided courtesy of the American Antiquarian Society.

Dear Madam,

I have lately seen in the newspaper, that the noted flag, which waved over Ft. McHenry in the bombardment of Baltimore; is in your possession, and is to be sent to the Centennial.

I take the liberty to send you a few particulars about the "Flag." It was made by my mother, Mrs. Mary Pickersgill, and I assisted her.

My grandmother, Rebecca Young, made the first flag of the Revolution (under General Washington's direction;) and for this reason my mother was selected by Comms. Barney and General Stricker, (family connections,) to make this "Star Spangled Banner"; which she did being an exceedingly exceedingly patriotic woman.

The flag being so very large, my mother was obliged to obtain permission from the proprietors of "Claggetts brewery which was in our neighborhood, to spread it out in their malt house; and I remember seeing my mother down on the floor, placing the stars; after the completion of the flag, she superintended the topping of it (Having it fastened) in the most secure manner to prevent its being torn away by balls; the wisdom of the precaution was shown during the engagement; many shots piercing it, but it still remained firm to the staff. Your father (Col. Armistead) declared that no one but the master of the flag should mend it, and requested that the rents should be merely bound around."

The flag contained, I think, four hundred yards of bunting and my mother worked many nights until 12o'clock to complete it in the given time.

I would also state, that many of the my ancestors were in the Revolution. My Grandfather William Young was captain in the war; my uncle, Col. Flower, was "Commissary General of Military stores," and "Colonel of Artillery." These, both lost their lives by Camp fever; I had another uncle taken prisoner by the British, and whipped through the fleet for attempting to escape; and my father in-law, Henry Purdy, served through the way.

For my character and position, I could refer you to Miss Margaret Purviance, or any other reference you would require; I could further recall myself to your recollection; as I was a manager of the "Aged Woman's Home" at the same time you were and was particularly associated with you, (both being Episcopalians) in the care of a Miss Jeffries, daughter of Mr. Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Your kindness and prompt attention to her, induced mot to present my case to you.

I am widowed and childless, and now find myself, in my seventy sixth year, in feeble health and with the barest pittance of support.

My friends here in Balto.- have suggested that if these particulars, met their your approbation, and were placed on a card attached to the flag, they might excite among patriotic people, some compassion for my helpless condition; but I would leave this matter entirely to your judgment.

I have not been able to write, on account of not having the use of my right arm, but thought it was better to put the signature in my own hand with kind regards. I trust in your sympathy.

(sga.) C. Purdy