Waving Through Time: Flags of the Sweetwater Seas

A ship’s flag is a distinctive feature in the world of boating and especially the Great Lakes. Bulk freighter companies have house flags that display their logo high in the air. Yachting associations have celebratory flags for their success in races and in their grouping. Signal flags are a form of communication between big and small vessels. There have been thousands of flags and symbols that have waved through time, each leaving its mark on the lakes. Through this exhibition, we are able to retell their history and the purpose of these flags. 

Come with us as we explore the flag collection of the National Museum of the Great Lakes, which includes over 200 different examples. The first half of the exhibit is complete; we hope that you will enjoy exploring.

The second half of the exhibit, which highlights yacht clubs, race pennants, and more signal flags is live. Be sure to follow @NMGLToledo on social media and sign-up to receive emails in order to receive notifications throughout the year when each new series and accompanying micro-exhibits launch.