Grace Wisher, an often overlooked figure, played a vital role in creating the Star-Spangled Banner. Born in the early 19th century in Baltimore, Grace’s story intertwines with turbulent times. She was a free African American girl who showcased resilience and the silent contributions of many like her. As a young girl, she dedicated her skills to a significant project. This project became a symbol of American pride and resilience. Despite a lack of recognition during her lifetime, Grace’s legacy deserves celebration. This post explores the lasting impact Grace left on American history.

At around 13 years old, Grace’s mother bound her daughter into service to help with family expenses. She also hoped it would provide Grace with a better future. Limited economic opportunities for free African American women in Baltimore at the time made an apprenticeship a valuable chance to learn essential skills. Grace mastered housework and plain sewing during her apprenticeship, boosting her personal and professional development.

Grace served as an indentured apprentice to Mary Pickersgill, a flag-maker. Mary was commissioned to create two flags for Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812. They crafted a 30 x 42-foot garrison flag and a 17 x 25-foot storm flag for inclement weather. Mary’s daughter Caroline (thirteen) and her nieces Eliza Young (thirteen) and Margaret Young (fifteen) assisted her and Grace with making the flag.

Grace served as an indentured apprentice to Mary Pickersgill, a flag-maker commissioned to create two flags for Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812. They crafted a 30 x 42-foot garrison flag and a 17 x 25-foot storm flag for inclement weather. Mary’s thirteen-year-old daughter Caroline and her nieces Eliza Young (thirteen) and Margaret Young (fifteen) assisted her and Grace with making the flag.

During her time, people did not recognize Grace Wisher for her work on the Star-Spangled Banner. While Mary Pickersgill and her family received credit, Grace’s contributions went largely unnoticed. Her work remained relatively unknown in historical records. After completing her apprenticeship, Grace likely continued working in domestic service or sewing. These were common occupations for free African American women in Baltimore at the time. However, specific details of her later life and contributions remain undocumented.

Efforts to acknowledge and honor Grace’s role in creating the iconic flag have only emerged in recent years. Her involvement in making the Star-Spangled Banner connects her to a pivotal moment in American and African American history. To learn about Grace Wisher, click here.