Flagpoles of Our Time: Origins, Designs, and Uses
Life is all about memories and achievements; the more you have them, the more beautiful life becomes. As human beings, we have values and symbols that we stand for. We not only want to be associated with them, but we also like to share our associations with other people around us. Through various objects, we express our allegiances to our country, institutions, and societies. A flag is one of those objects that we enjoy being associated with. They articulate the values that we believe in. Flagpoles are installed with the intention of evoking emotions from the observer. The might and confidence a flag radiates from its flagpole is similar to the characteristics an individual or organization wants to project regarding their own identity.
Flagpoles are made of materials that have evolved with time. The materials used today are not the same as those used when flagpoles were first invented. Thousands of years ago, stripped pieces of bark were commonly used to hang flags upon. The disadvantage of wood as a material for flagpoles was that it was susceptible to termite attack and other environmental elements, despite primitive efforts to coat the flagpole with animal fat as a protectant. Though new technologies mean flagpoles are way more advanced, the crude but practical wooden flagpole is still used by children the world over in play and sport (you can check our products here: Flag Poles and Flagpole Products and flag accessories here:Flag Kits & Accessories).
During the Industrial Revolution, steel was quickly brought in to replace wooden flagpoles. Despite its strength over wood, pure steel is costly to manufacture. Therefore, modern flagpoles are commonly made from a combination of aluminum and fiberglass, though steel flagpoles are also still an option. The most popular is the jumbo steel flagpole, which is primarily reserved for commercial, government, and military use.
In commercial establishments, flagpoles bear the values, banner, and motto of the host organization. The alignment of commercial flagpoles on the property of a corporation can deliver a sense of unity, especially where each flag represents a different subsidiary. This emotive use of flagpoles is also used in hotels where flags from different countries are hung equally across the front of the building. Similarly, residential flagpoles display patriotism and multiculturalism throughout local neighborhoods.
National flags have evolved over long periods of time. They carry with them philosophies, history, and promises. The flagpoles that carry national flags, especially in capital cities, are as exquisite and majestic as the flags themselves. Most are adorned with intricate and symbolic ornamentation made of gold leaf and other precious metals. In most parts of the world, national flagpoles provide reassurance of unity, prosperity, harmony, and economic stability. These flagpoles embody the most sacred representation any flag can portray – peace.
