3X5 FT NYLON WASHINGTON'S CRUISER FLAG For outdoor display, these Historical Flags are offered in 100% heavyweight nylon, a 200 denier bunting specially treated to minimize sun and chemical deterioration. They are extremely durable, fast-drying, and boast brilliant, fast colors. All outdoor flags are finished with strong canvas headings and large grommets.

WASHINGTON'S CRUISER FLAG HISTORY

In Sept 1775 two scows were launched on the Charles River in Cambridge Massachusetts.  The ensign was a white flag with a pine tree and the slogan "An Appeal to Heaven".  The tradition in New England at that time was to use the tree as a symbol and perhaps that is why some thought it fitting to use it at sea.

In October 1775 the Continental Congress authorized outfitting two vessels to intercept British supplies headed to Rhode Island.  It was suggested that all the colonial vessels should fly a particular "Colors for a Flag and a Signal by which our vessels may know one another".  Wahington's secretary suggested a white Ground, a tree in the middle and the motto "Appeal to Heaven". 

The Continental armed brig, Washington, was captured by the British in December 1775 and taken to Boston.  It was of great interest to the King's forces.  They described a white field with a green pine tree in the middle with a motto.  That flag was shown first to King George III and then sent on to Captain George Montagu of HMS Fowey who had captured the Washington.  It has been documented that Lucy Hammett made that flag in November 1775 for fourteen shillings.

The Massachusetts Council created the Massachusetts navy and passed several resolutions related to sea service.  One resolution related to uniforms and flags and stated "the Colors be a White Flag with a Green Pine Tree and the inscription "Appeal to Heaven".

The Pine Tree Flag was used by privateers licensed by Massachusetts as evidenced by the armed brig, Yankee Here, captured off Boston that flew a White flag with a pine tree.