Appeal to Heaven Flags – Pine Tree & Washington Cruisers Flags

Shop Appeal to Heaven flags, also called Pine Tree flags or Washington’s Cruisers flags. Explore available flag sizes and designs below, plus related hats, bumper stickers, and other merchandise. Check each product for its material, construction, and country of manufacture. Need a double-sided flag, sleeve, or custom size? Contact us about a custom order.

What Is the Appeal to Heaven Flag?

The historic design places a green pine tree on a white field with the words “An Appeal to Heaven.” The pine tree was a familiar New England emblem during the American Revolution. The design is also called the Pine Tree flag and Washington’s Cruisers flag. Surviving descriptions and illustrations vary, so reproductions may differ in the tree and lettering.

History of Washington’s Cruisers and the Pine Tree Flag

In 1775, armed schooners sailing from Massachusetts under George Washington’s authority intercepted British supply vessels. Pine tree flags bearing “An Appeal to Heaven” were associated with these schooners, as well as Massachusetts state navy vessels and privateers. The Naval History and Heritage Command documents these uses. The flag recalls the earliest maritime efforts of the Revolution; it was not the later Stars and Stripes.

What Does “An Appeal to Heaven” Mean?

The phrase calls on a higher authority when people believe no fair remedy is available on earth. John Locke used “appeal to Heaven” in his Second Treatise of Government while discussing resistance to rulers who abuse their power. In the Revolutionary era, the words on the flag expressed the colonists’ appeal for justice in their struggle with Britain. Read the passage from Locke.

Appeal to Heaven Flag FAQs

Is the Appeal to Heaven flag the same as the Pine Tree flag?

Yes. “Pine Tree flag” describes its central emblem; “Appeal to Heaven flag” names the motto. “Washington’s Cruisers flag” refers to its Revolutionary maritime association.

When was the Appeal to Heaven flag used?

It is associated with the opening years of the American Revolution, including Massachusetts armed vessels and schooners operating under Washington’s authority in 1775–1776.

Was it the official United States flag?

No. It is a Revolutionary-era flag associated with particular vessels, not the national flag adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777.

Explore more Revolutionary War flags, or see our guide to the flags of the American Revolution.