An anode plate (10) for use in a field emission flat panel display device (8) comprises a transparent substrate (26) having a plurality of spaced-apart, electrically conductive regions (28) which form the anode electrode of the display device (8). The conductive regions (28) are covered by a luminescent material (24). A getter material (29) is deposited on the substrate (26) and between the conductive regions (28) of the anode plate (10). The getter material (29) is preferably an electrically nonconductive, high porosity, and low density material, such as an aerogel or xerogel. Methods of fabricating the getter material (29) on the anode plate (10) are disclosed.