Based on three sworn historical affidavits from Betsy’s daughter, granddaughter, and niece, this free Readers Theater script presents briefly the story of the first flag of the United States of America. Although it's a serious subject, the characters in "The Betsy Ross Story" are jovial and patriotic. Perfect for Flag Day, patriotic programs, or unit studies on American history, "The Betsy Ross Story" should also be useful for ESL classes. Curriculum links current as of January, 2017. This historical script embodies character qualities of respect, diligence, helpfulness, and honesty.
TIME: about 10 minutes
CAST: 6
TONE: realistic historical
READABILITY: Grade 5.2 (4.7 without the word "Narrator")
(Note: This Readers Theater script would work well in a program with patriotic music.)
If you need an easier or more advanced readability level and you are a paying member of our site, contact Carol at more@readerstheaterallyear.com
Here's a brief excerpt from the script:
The Betsy Ross Story
By Carol Montgomery ©2010
From the early part of the script after the two narrators give some historical information and introductions are made...
Narrator 1: So Betsy took care of her guests then asked...
Betsy: You all look very official today. Is there something on your minds?
George W: Well, I've told people that every since I met you at Christ Church and found out you had an upholstery business that you could sew anything...chair cushions, shirt ruffles, (pause) even turkeys!
Robert: (smiles) That's right.
Betsy: (shaking head and smiling) Oh, George.
George: So, we were wondering...would you be willing to sew a new flag?
Betsy: Is there a problem with the Grand Union flag?
Colonel Ross: (laughs) Is there a problem? Robert, tell her our problem, please.
Click on the arrow below to download the full printable version of the free Readers Theater script "The Betsy Ross Story."
