The "Bonnie Blue Flag" was used as an unofficial flag during the early months of 1861. It was flying above the Confederate batteries that first opened fire on Fort Sumter, beginning the Civil War. For all of these reasons the flag has come to symbolize secession, self-governance and state sovereignty. Family owned for over 175 years, Annin Flagmakers takes special pride in producing high-quality, American-made state, international, and military flags. All Annin Flagmakers flags are sewn in either South Boston, VA, or Coshocton, OH. Our superior quality is time-tested and meets the requirements of the most discerning buyer. Nyl-Glo, Tough Tex, and Bulldog are registered trademarks and manufactured exclusively by Annin Flagmakers.