Cross Of Saint George

In 1585, the English attempted their first serious settlement at Roanoke Colony (in modern-day North Carolina). When relief ships later returned, the settlers had vanished. The mystery earned the effort a lasting name — the Lost Colony. Whatever happened there, England’s interest in the continent did not disappear.

In 1607, Jamestown (in modern-day Virginia) became the first permanent English settlement. It endured famine, conflict, and disease, yet it survived. From this fragile foothold grew the colonial system that would spread along the Atlantic coast and, over time, become the thirteen colonies.

The Cross of St. George was one of the most important and enduring symbols carried by English explorers and soldiers. Its design was simple and bold: a red cross stretched across a white field. At sea or on land, it could be recognized instantly, a visible sign that English authority had arrived.

The emblem was linked to Saint George, honored as a model of courage and Christian faith. By the late Middle Ages, he was regarded as England’s patron saint. Sailing or marching beneath his cross announced not only which kingdom these men served, but also that they believed divine favor stood with them.

Though later British flags layered in additional crosses, the striking red cross on white remains central to England’s identity even today.