Joins other 11-11-11 events
Robert Williamson and another volunteer worked to put some of the final touches on the new House of Flags museum Wednesday, Nov. 9 in preparation for the grand opening Friday, Nov. 11 at noon in Columbus.
Nov. 11, 2011 marks the culmination of more than a decade of work initiated by founder George Scofield and VFW Post 9116. Scofield and other dedicated volunteers, who believed in the historical significance flags hold, diligently raised funds and in-kind donations to make the museum possible.
“It didn’t happen all at once, but it’s a testament to the community support behind this project,” said House of Flags Chairman Williamson.
Donations include two from an anonymous donor in the amounts of $10,000 last year and $30,000 this year, for a total of $40,000. In August, The Timken Foundation of Canton, Ohio, awarded a significant grant to the museum. Upon completion, the second floor will be named the Timken Room and the Timken flag will be featured there.
This unique collection of flags ranges from U.S. military service flags to religious flags. As part of the tour one can see the evolution of the “Stars and Stripes” as well as many of its predecessors from which its creators gained inspiration. The centerpiece of the collection is the 27 official flags of America from 13 to 50 stars. Each state’s and territory’s flags are also on display.
The grand opening celebration will include music, military veteran’s color guard, Sons of the American Revolution color guard, local dignitaries and special guests.
Cutting the ribbon for the museum will be Shirl Axtell, widow of WWII veteran George Axtell, whose three-star flag is proudly displayed inside the museum.
The dedication of the new building and ribbon cutting will be followed by tours and light refreshments. The new museum is located behind the Polk County Courthouse.