Grace Rogers Cooper

Grace Rogers Cooper was a prominent curator at the Smithsonian Institution and an expert in textiles and vexillology. Her most significant contribution to the field came with the publication of her seminal work, 'Thirteen-Star Flags: Keys to Identification' in 1973. This groundbreaking book challenged the authenticity of numerous so-called antique flags, revealing many to be modern replicas. Through meticulous research and analysis, Cooper not only advanced the study of American flags but also provided crucial insights into the historical context of these textiles. Beyond her influential publication, Cooper's work at the Smithsonian helped to elevate the importance of textile studies within American history. She played a vital role in educating the public about the significance of flags as cultural artifacts, emphasizing their role in American identity and heritage. Her legacy endures through her contributions to vexillology and the preservation of textile history, marking her as a key figure in the study of American flags and their meanings.