Why is a white flag flown by the NPS on Saint Croix Island?
The flag on the island represents a 17th-century flag of France and is flown as part of the commemoration of the 1604 landing at Saint Croix. Following consultation with vexillological (the study of flags) authorities in both the United States and France, it was concluded that the drapeau blanc (white flag) of the Bourbon Monarchy was the appropriate flag to fly on the island. Historians point out, however, that the use of flags during the period was rare, except on public buildings and at military outposts. Far more common was the display of the Royal Arms or the personal coat of arms of the leader of the colony.
