Whether it’s pointing game birds in the air or retrieving game in the water, the dutch hunting dog is the perfect partner. Exceptionally adaptable, quick learners, and affectionate family companions, these versatile sporting dogs will quickly become an integral part of your life.

The Drentsche Patrijshond (DRENTS-CHEE pARTi-jSHohnd) is the oldest Dutch breed, a versatile hound with a long history of working as a hunting dog and family pet. Unlike other breeds developed by and for the nobility, this breed was bred to serve three purposes: hunt, guard livestock and estates, and be a beloved pet for all the family.

Nederlandse Kooikerhondje: Agile and Playful

These little spaniel-type dogs first appear in Dutch Old Master paintings, where they help hunters lure ducks into traps. They are often used to lure ducks into enclosures, or “eendenkoois,” built along wetlands and canals. When a duck lands near one of these, the dog would stand in front of it, waving its tail and barking to draw in its prey. This is how the name kooikerhondje was coined—a nod to the breed’s role as a decoy dog.

Today, kooikerhondje are still a popular choice in their native Netherlands. But outside of Europe, they’re still relatively rare. Their unique attributes and versatile hunting skills have captured the hearts of many American dog lovers, and they’re well-suited for both bird and small mammal hunting. But like all breeds, kooikerhondje require a bit of care and attention to thrive.

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The First National Confederate 7 Stars and Bars Flag served as the national flag of the Confederacy from March 4, 1861 to May 1, 1863. It is named for its blue canton with a circle of seven white stars representing the original states that formed the southern states of the United States when they seceded from the Union in 1860. The red field symbolizes the blood of Christ and the white border represents the protection of God. The X in the middle is based on the Christian cross of Saint Andrew, Patron Saint of Scotland and the first Disciple of Jesus Christ.Resource: ultimateflags.com

Legacy of the South: First National Confederate 7 Stars and Bars Flag

During the early part of the war, there were many designs for the Confederate national flag. Most were based on the Stars and Stripes, but there was one exception, a proposal by South Carolina Congressman William Porcher Miles. He wanted a design that was unique and distinctive. He was concerned that too many Confederates looked back with nostalgia to the Union and wanted the national flag to be different from the Stars and Bars.

In the end, a majority of the Provisional Congress committee favored the Stars and Bars. It was adopted, but soon criticized for its too close resemblance to the United States flag and feared to confuse the battlefield. General Beauregard recommended having a separate battle flag with a red background crisscrossed by a blue X. This was soon adopted as the Army of Northern Virginia’s flag.

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