This flag dates to the War of 1812 and Battle of Lake Champlain (a.k.a. Battle of Plattsburgh), although their is scant proof it was ever flown during battle. The flag is attributed to the Veterans Exempt Militia, led by Captain Woolsey, comprised of Revolutionary War veterans who volunteered to service during the reignited conflict with England in 1812.
The flag is comprised of 13 white stars atop a black field, with a skull and crossbones prominently displayed beneath a coiled rattlesnake. Atop the snake the famous “DONT TREAD ON ME”. Beneath the skull reads “THY WILL BE DONE”.
