The Flag Raising Ceremony: A Capon Tradition Since the 1940s

Anyone who has visited Capon knows that the Star Spangled Banner is spotlighted at the start of each day during the flag raising ceremony.  Because this year marks a special anniversary for our country's National Anthem, we have a few special tributes planned. On Tuesday, September 16^th we will honor the 200^th anniversary of the completed version of the Star Spangled Banner. That night, the Blue & Gray Chorus of Martinsburg, WV will lead a patriotic medley of tunes before, during and after a special flag lowering ceremony.  A short historical documentary about the US flag will also be presented. 

(Also, all guests who visit us any of the three nights of 9/16, 9/17 and/or 9/18, will receive our special 82^nd anniversary $82/person/night rates. Main house rooms with shared bath are only $62/person/night.) 

Being one of Capon’s most time-honored traditions, guests have heard the national anthem every morning before receiving breakfast since the 1940s.  While everyone stands at attention for this solemn ceremony, kids of all ages take turns hoisting the US flag.  Since all of Capon’s flags were first flown over the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, DC, flag raisers receive a certificate suitable for framing for their efforts.  For the first thirty years, Capon founder Lou Austin signed each certificate.  Then his oldest son Porter carried on the tradition.  Now, third generation family member Tom Austin does the honors.

Until recently, only Fred Waring’s slow paced version of the National Anthem played through the trees at 8:25 each morning.  About 10 years ago, a more up tempo version was added to the weekday mix.  About the same time, a special edition performed by the LaFayette Men’s Choir (which included Capon guest Charlie Zook) became the Sunday tradition.

Every once in awhile, Capon guests themselves will offer to stand in for the recorded version.  Earlier this summer, for four straight mornings, vocalists perched on the 3^rd floor balcony outside the library to provide stirring renditions of the Star Spangled Banner after the morning flag raising.  Then later, inspired by their musical sharing, Manhattan School of Arts masters degree student, blogger, and long-time guest, Sarah Kenner, brought a tear to many an eye with her arrangement of the Star Spangled Banner for solo violin. Check out the video of Sarah's performance below... it is truly a magical Capon moment!

Looking for more information about the Star Spangled Banner and Francis Scott Key, including resources for kids?  Check out this website which includes videos, free coloring pages and a collection of articles.

Many of you have raised or lowered the flag at Capon.  Do you still have your certificate? We'd love to hear about a memory you have of a special Capon flag ceremony... share your stories in the comments below.