As the town of Swampscott eagerly prepares for Fourth of July cookouts and beach days, the library welcomed a special visitor Monday: none other than the creator of the American flag, Betsy Ross — or at least, a convincing portrayal of her.

Ross is one of the 15 characters played by Carole Finn, who travels around the North Shore offering interactive, live history lessons. A group of Swampscott children learned at the library Monday about the origins of the flag, colonial era traditions and customs as Finn, impersonating Ross, taught them about the American icon.

“I think it’s very important for them to learn about history,” said Finn. “It’s a fun way for them to learn. I want them to be curious about the past.”

Finn started the event by explaining how childhood looked in the 18th century. Some attendees had the opportunity to try on outfits similar to those worn by children in colonial America.

She explained that Ross picked up sewing at a young age before pursuing an apprenticeship, something not many women did at the time.

Among the lesser-known stories shared during the program was that the nation’s flag was initially designed as a square before Betsy Ross persuaded for it to be made rectangular so it would fly more gracefully in the wind.

Finn said Ross had never made a flag before she was tasked with making the Star Spangled Banner. Ross had spent a lot of her time making uniforms and tents for American soldiers.

“I love entertaining and educating children,” said Finn. “It’s a happy job. When I go to schools, libraries and birthday parties they are happy to see me, and that makes me feel happy too.”

Finn also said she enjoys doing all of the research required to properly and accurately teach.

The children left the library on Monday ready to share newly-learned fun facts and information as they celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. this weekend.