Hiram College and the Hiram Historical Society are partnering to present a rare opportunity to view the historic U.S. flag made for James A. Garfield in 1880. This three-day public exhibition will take place in Hiram College’s Kennedy Center Ballroom, culminating with a special lecture by historian and biographer C.W. Goodyear on February 22 at noon.
Event Dates: Thursday, February 20 and Friday, February 21 from noon – 4 p.m. and Saturday, February 22 from 9:30 a.m. – noon
Location: Hiram College, Kennedy Center Ballroom
This historic flag, measuring 15’ x 26’, was created by a women’s group in Hiram and flown when Garfield won the presidential nomination in 1880. It was later displayed following his assassination and again after President William McKinley’s death. Accompanying the flag will be additional James A. Garfield memorabilia from the Hiram College Archives. An honor guard from American Legion Post #193 in Mantua will stand watch during display hours, adding to the event’s significance. Given the delicate condition of the 145-year-old textile, this may be the final opportunity for the public to see it unfurled before it is permanently preserved.
Special Lecture – Saturday, February 22 at Noon
At the close of the display, Timothy Garfield (great-great-grandson of James A. Garfield) will introduce C.W. Goodyear, who will discuss Garfield’s lasting impact. A dynamic and engaging speaker, Goodyear will also have signed copies of his book available for purchase. The lecture will take place in Dix Hall, across from the flag display.
This collaboration between Hiram College and the Hiram Historical Society provides a rare chance to engage with Garfield’s legacy and explore a significant piece of American history. This event is free and open to the public.
