Community
Flag Worn Out After the Fourth? City Hall Has a Drop Box
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
If your flag came down from the Fourth looking faded or frayed, don't toss it in the trash. The U.S. Flag Code calls for a flag that's no longer "a fitting emblem for display" to be "destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning," and Marengo makes that easy: there's a flag retirement drop box at city hall, 132 E. Prairie St.
The next chance to see it done right comes Monday, August 17, at 7 p.m., when American Legion Kishwaukee Post 192, BSA Troop 247, Cub Scout Pack 163, and local Girl Scouts hold a public flag retirement ceremony at Indian Oaks Park, 825 Indian Oaks Trail. Organizers say the event is open to anyone who wants to learn about proper flag retirement or watch the solemn tradition.
The ceremony is outdoors, so if you plan to attend, check the event's Facebook page that day in case weather forces a postponement or cancellation.