George Henry Preble-- Part 7: Of Books, Documents and "The Star-Spangled Banner"

Preble was also a noted writer of naval and historical topics and collector of naval documents.  His extensive personal library of books and documents are in the George Henry Preble Collection at the Navy Department Library.

In 1868, he prepared a genealogical history of the Preble family which included a lot about his famous uncle Edward Preble and a defense of his actions that led to his dismissal from naval service.  In 1872, he published "A History of the American Flag.

At one time he also took care of the original "Star-Spangled Banner" that had flown over Fort McHenry in the War if 1812 and had it sewn to a piece of sailcloth to conserve it.  Plus, he also took the first photograph of it.

--Old B-R'er