So What’s the Deal with Sons of Liberty Flags?

The short answer: there was no single, official Sons of Liberty flag, and that’s exactly why there are multiple versions.

The Sons of Liberty were not a formal organization in the modern sense. They had no charter, no membership rolls, no headquarters, and no standardized symbols. Instead, they were a loosely connected movement of radicals united by opposition to British taxation and the erosion of colonial civil liberties. Their activities ranged far beyond speeches and petitions—they organized protests, enforced boycotts, destroyed property, tarred and feathered officials, and famously carried out the Boston Tea Party.

Prominent figures associated with the movement include Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, James Otis, and even John Adams. Contemporary writers consistently describe the Sons of Liberty as a movement or association, not a structured organization.

Why Two Stripe Versions?

Because the Sons of Liberty were decentralized, symbols evolved organically rather than being officially adopted.

• Nine-stripe versions are often linked to the Stamp Act Congress of 1765, attended by delegates from nine colonies.

• Other interpretations connect the number nine to British radical politics—specifically John Wilkes’ “No. 45” pamphlet, a symbol of resistance to government overreach that strongly influenced colonial activists (as noted in Mastai, The Stars and the Stripes).

• Still later, the number nine was retroactively associated with the nine states required to ratify the Constitution.

Wikipedia notes that the nine-stripe design was known as the “rebellious stripes flag” by 1767, while thirteen-stripe versions also became associated with the Sons of Liberty as resistance broadened to include all thirteen colonies.

But How Does a “Secret” Group Use a Flag?

That’s the key point—they didn’t use flags the way armies or governments did.

The Sons of Liberty were not marching in parades under banners or flying flags from their homes. Instead, striped banners and devices were likely used as protest symbols, rally identifiers, printed imagery, or temporary displays—visual shorthand for resistance rather than formal national or organizational flags.

In other words, these designs functioned as political symbols, not official ensigns.

Who Were They, Really?

By all accounts, the Sons of Liberty were the radicals of their day—angry, organized, and willing to use force. Their sustained resistance made the Stamp Act effectively unenforceable, leading to its repeal in 1766. Anyone who supported their cause could claim the name “Son of Liberty,” which explains both their rapid spread and their lack of uniform symbols.

Features:

• Size: 3′ x 5′

• Material: Durable nylon

• Design: Nylon with sewn stripes

• Heading: Reinforced polyester canvas

• Attachment: Brass grommets for secure hanging

Proudly made in the United States. This flag is made to order—please allow 7–14 days for delivery.

Larger sizes are available—please inquire for details.