Paul Harvey: The Rest of the Story

Hopkinson Not Paid for Design of U.S. Flag Due to Government Red Tape

English · History, Essays & Short Works

Paul Harvey: The Rest of the Story presents brief, true-life stories that uncover surprising or little-known details behind familiar people, events, and ideas. In this installment, Harvey tells the story of Francis Hopkinson and the claim that he was not paid for designing the U.S. flag because of government red tape.

Harvey’s distinctive delivery gives the program its shape: a measured, conversational narration builds curiosity, then brings the story to its revealing conclusion. The focus is on the anecdote and its historical twist, rather than on a cast of characters or extended dramatic scenes.

Warm, concise, and gently suspenseful, the series turns overlooked details into memorable stories. Harvey’s familiar voice and carefully timed pauses make this a compact listen for anyone who enjoys history told through an unexpected personal detail.

This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.