The burgee is a club flag and the rules of etiquette have evolved over the
year in and between yacht club. Most other flag etiquette is more of an
international understanding..

A burgee on a pigstick evolved back in the days of gaff rigs when there were
seldom spreaders. By having the burgee flown from the pig stick, at the
'truck' (mast head), the race officials, spectators and other skippers could
see the burgee at all times.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions