subject: Historic and Military Flags - The Red Ensign [print this page] Like many others, I am a big fan of military flags. Building and non building type constructions will often fly historic military flags from their flag poles. The United States of America has a rich history when it comes to historic flags that were flown from flag poles and such in the past, including time periods such as the American Revolution.
The British Red Ensign flag is one such historic flag. The "Red Duster" as it is sometimes referred to, is a banner that was flown during the early years of the 17th century by the Royal Navy. It was also displayed by British merchants. Historians cannot exactly designate when it was first flown in history. However, evidence in the form of historic receipts indicates that they were produced during the second decade of the 17th century.
Interestingly, in our day it is used as a civil ensign of the U.K and can be observed flying from flag poles throughout U.K. cities and towns, including London.
International, national, territorial and military flags throughout the world can have very interesting similarities. For the example, the Australian Red Ensign is a red colored version of the national flag of Australia. During the first half of the twentieth century, it was used as a civil type banner, and attached to flag poles and such by private citizens on land. The Blue Ensign however, was used by the government thus reflecting British custom.
With the passing of the so called "Flag Act" in 1953, that any restrictions with regards to civilians flying the Blue flag was officially done away with. Ever since, the display of the Red flag has become increasingly rare. Fascinatingly, the Red Ensign is the only banner allowed to be used and or flown by Australian merchant ships. Recreational vessels are allowed to use either the national flag of Australia or the Red Ensign, not both at the same time.
Military flags and banners for use with flag poles of all kinds are made available in different quality materials. Made in the United States of America, these flags fly beautifully in the slightest breeze.
