About Us
At Flagsource Unlimited, we’ve built our reputation on providing quality flags, flagpoles, flagpole lighting and service to customers across the country. From our humble beginnings in a Shawnee garage to the e-commerce presence we maintain today, we remain dedicated to our values: offering high-quality products, exceptional service, and ensuring that every customer’s flag needs are met with care and precision. We’re proud of our history and excited for what the future holds!
February 2024: A New Chapter
In February 2024, Mike made the bittersweet decision to sell Flagsource Unlimited to Pitcher Family Holdings, Inc. He and Lois felt truly fortunate to have found a dedicated and like-minded group to continue the business’s legacy. Lois expressed her gratitude, feeling blessed that the new owners would uphold the inclusion of God in the company’s values. Confident that Pitcher Family Holdings will carry forward the same commitment to customers with respect and care, Mike and Lois extend their best wishes as Flagsource Unlimited enters this new chapter of growth.
2012–2020: Technological Growth and Transition to New Leadership
Following Harold’s passing, Flagsource Unlimited operated with a basic static website displaying product images without pricing or purchasing options. Mike invested months of effort in developing a comprehensive e-commerce platform, allowing customers nationwide to easily browse and order products online. He also modernized the company’s operations by implementing QuickBooks accounting software, streamlining invoicing and inventory management, and replacing the handwritten invoice system.
In 2020, after many years of dedicated service, Lois retired, entrusting Mike with the continued operation of the company they had built together. Under his leadership, Flagsource Unlimited has remained steadfast in its commitment to exceptional customer service and quality products, continuing to thrive in a modernized and competitive market.
2010–2012: Family Support, Leadership Change, and a Sad Farewell
In 2010, Lois suffered a fractured hip and shoulder, requiring multiple surgeries and a six-month rehabilitation stay. During this challenging time, their eldest son, Mike, moved back to Shawnee from Canada to support the family and the business while caring for Harold. As Harold's Parkinson's disease progressed, he made the decision to pass the company to Mike, with Lois continuing to manage phone calls and bookkeeping.
In June of 2012, Harold passed away. Despite the emotional toll of his loss, Mike and Lois remained dedicated to keeping the business strong, honoring Harold's legacy through their resilience and commitment.
Late 1990s – Early 2000s: Challenges and Transitions
Harold’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease eventually made it impossible for him to continue operating the bucket truck. As his condition worsened, the company was downsized, and they sold the bucket truck. Lois continued to run the retail shop, mostly on her own.
1990s: The Gulf War and Growth
During the height of the Gulf War, Flagsource Unlimited saw an outpouring of flag sales as people lined up down the street to purchase American flags. This surge in demand reinforced Harold and Lois's pride in running a small business that was thriving due to their hard work and dedication.
1990: Expanding Services
The business expanded beyond flag sales to include service and repairs. They began servicing flagpoles and offering flag repairs. Lois had an idea to create logo flags, further diversifying the business. In 1990, with steady business, Harold purchased a bucket truck, replacing the Bangor ladders he had been using for installation and service work. The new white truck with red and blue trim quickly became a recognizable symbol of their quality service.
Late 1987: A Home-Based Business
With a large garage perfect for storing their collection of old cars, Harold and Lois decided to clear out space to set up a small retail shop. Back in the late 1980s, operating a home-based business was much simpler, and Flagsource Unlimited took root in Shawnee, Kansas. They joined the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and hosted a "Business After Hours" event, which marked the beginning of long-lasting relationships with local Police and Fire Departments in Johnson County.
February 1987: A New Beginning
Harold and Lois Vaille were deeply immersed in renovating townhouses in Overland Park, Kansas, working late into the evenings, seven days a week. However, they felt it was time for a change. When friends Jack and Rosamary Kirkham; RJD Associates, invited them to St. Louis, Missouri, to learn about the flag business, they took the leap. Jack, who had been successfully running his own flag business, introduced them to the idea of starting their own venture in the Kansas City area.
As they drove around St. Louis, Jack proudly pointed out flagpoles he had installed and flags he had sold. Harold and Lois were amazed at how well Jack remembered each of his customers, and it was then that they knew they were ready to embark on this new journey.
Jack kept his promise, introducing them to trusted suppliers like Annin & Co. and Flagzone, and before long, Flagsource Unlimited was born.