Frame Size (H x L): 30” x 24”
Flag Size (H x L): 9” x 14” and Affixed to a 20” Staff

Offered is a thirty-six star parade flag.  A parade flag is a small scale flag intended for short term use at parades, celebrations, rallies, and inaugurations, to name just a few examples.  The stars of this flag are very crudely shaped and positioned in rectilinear 6-6-6-6-6-6 pattern.  A rectilinear star pattern is one in which the stars are aligned both horizontally and vertically.  The stripes of this particular flag are closer to orange than red.  Such a color is a result of the use of either madder or cochineal to create the red dye, and is common in flags dating between 1850 and 1880.  The orange color of the “red” stripes is very attractive.   

The thirty-six star flag represents the inclusion of Nevada to the Union.  Nevada was admitted on October 31st, 1864, and this flag became official on July 4th, 1865.  Nevada was originally part of the Utah Territory beginning in 1850, became its own territory in 1861, and became its own state in 1864.  The timing of Nevada's inclusion was politically and economically based.  For political reasons, Nevada was admitted to the Union just eight days prior to President Lincoln's re-election bid against General George McClellan.  Such timing was meant to benefit Lincoln and his fellow Republicans.  For economic reasons, Nevada was included as part of the Union to help it pay off the country’s war debts.  Economically, Nevada was particularly attractive at the time, because of its significant silver mining industry.  Nevada expanded its borders in 1866 when the western Utah Territory was added to its eastern side, and further expanded in 1867 when a portion Pah-Ute County in the Arizona Territory was added to its southern side.  

The thirty-six star flag was the official flag for the last six months of the Civil War, and was used by the military during that time.  It was also the official flag during a portion of the Reconstruction era.  Ultimately, the thirty-six star flag was official until July 4th, 1867, the time at which the thirty-seven star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of Nebraska in the Union. 

Conservation Process: This flag was hand sewn to cotton fabric, and both were hand sewn to a mounting board.  To prevent the black dye in the cotton fabric from seeping into the flag, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The flag is positioned behind Conservation Clear Acrylic (standard) or behind Optium Museum Acrylic (per request).

Frame: This offering is in a modern black frame.  

Condition Report: This flag has some minor foxing and staining, particularly along the staff end.  The canton and stripes are faded.  Still, the flag is a gorgeous statement piece.  Many collectors prefer flags that show their use and age.   

Collectability Level: The Great – Perfect for Rising Collectors  
Date of Origin: 1864-1867  
Number of Stars: 36   
Associated War: Civil War (1861-1865)  
Associated State: Nevada