Family Donates First 45-Star U.S. Flag To Utah
May 11, 2021, 3:05 PM | Updated: 5:04 pm
The original 45 star flag was unfurled at the State Capitol. (KSL TV)
(KSL TV)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The first 45-star U.S. flag has been donated to the state of Utah by a Logan man and his family.
The flag flew over the United States Capitol when Utah became a state in 1896.
Jan Benson officially gifted the flag on behalf of his family to Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson during a ceremony Tuesday morning at the Gold Room in the State Capitol.
“I will miss having the flag in my home, but I will not miss the guilt, and I’m relieved so that it is now going to be taken care of properly,” Benson said.
“This is especially meaningful this year because it is the 125th anniversary of statehood,” said Henderson.
The Benson family said they have cared for the flag since it was given to their father when he was the president of the Utah State Society back in the 1950’s.
Today Utah received a marvelous gift. The Benson family donated this historic 45-star flag that is said to have flown over the U.S. Capitol in 1896 when Utah became a state. We’re honored to receive this piece of history & grateful to the Benson family for sharing it with it us. pic.twitter.com/MeTEZqg5Yq
— Lieutenant Governor Deidre M. Henderson (@LGHendersonUtah) May 11, 2021
The family was pleased to know that more people will get to enjoy this unique piece of Utah State History.
The flag will be displayed on the first floor of the Capitol, near the Hall of the Governors.
