The Taber Museum hosted Meg Geffken, appearing as the historical character ‘Betsy Ross’ at its Coffee Hour on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Meg Geffken, a frequent visitor to the Museum, has re-created the lives of a number of women from the pages of history including Eleanor Roosevelt, Beatrix Potter, Amelia Earhart, Abigail Geisinger, and Marilyn Monroe. Her talks are always popular, and her Ross portrayal was no exception.
“Betsy Ross’ was Elizabeth Griscom (Mrs. John) Ross, a member of the Society of Friends (Quakers) who apprenticed to the upholsterer’s trade in Philadelphia. Her husband was likewise employed in the upholsterer’s trade, but his life was cut short after joining the local militia during the American Revolution. As a widow, Betsy continued working as a seamstress. Her grandson William Canby popularized the legendary story that Betsy designed and created the first American flag at the request of George Washington and a committee from the Continental Congress.
Meg related this interesting history, and more in her talk.
Thanks to Meg Geffken for her always interesting presentation and also to VanCampen Motors, which underwrites the Coffee Hour with a generous grant.
