I find flags to be fascinating almost-art objects. And the storytelling aspects of rare American flags, typically used to express unity or victory or passion, are part of the same symbolic lineage as merit badges we all lust after at camp. Lots of geometric shapes, bold colors and iconography. These days, merit badges still tell a story — of a struggle, or a victory — and serve to express commitment to a group or cause, such as environmentalism or organic farming. And the visual stories they tell are as important to campers as these early flags were to revolutionaries and idealists.  We made merit badges…

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