Frame Size (H x L): 14.5” x 8.75”
Flag Size (H x L): 8” x 8.25”

Offered is a silk badge-like flag, featuring a small metal bar at the top, folded under and not visible in the image, designed to be worn. The flag consists of red and white stripes, with a blue canton in the upper left displaying thirty-nine stars. The black overprint reads "Ninth Corps," along with "22nd National Encampment," followed by the location "Columbus" and the date "September 12, 1888." Gold tassels hang from the bottom, adding a decorative touch to this commemorative piece.

THE OVERPRINT
The overprint on this badge-like flag commemorates the 22nd National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic (“GAR”), held in Columbus, Ohio, on September 12th, 1888. The GAR was a fraternal organization formed by Union veterans of the Civil War, and these national encampments were significant events where veterans would reunite, honor their service, and preserve the camaraderie developed during the war. The GAR played a key role in post-war politics, advocating for veterans' rights and memorializing the Union's victory. The reference to the Ninth Corps adds historical depth, as it was a prominent Union Army formation that played crucial roles in major battles like the Siege of Petersburg and the Battle of Antietam. Veterans of the Ninth Corps would have worn this flag to commemorate their service and the sacrifices made, making it a piece of personal and collective memory for those who served and their descendants.

THE STAR CONFIGURATION
The star configuration on this flag, known as a medallion, features a circular arrangement of stars in the blue canton. At the center is a ring of stars symbolizing unity, with four additional stars in the corners of the canton. Medallion configurations were particularly popular from 1850 to 1890, often used to create a sense of symmetry, interest, and balance in flag designs. The flanking stars in the corners enhance the structured and decorative look, making this flag a classic representation of 19th-century American flag design.

THIRTY-NINE STAR FLAGS GENERALLY
Thirty-nine star flags are a unique oddity in American flag history, as the star count was never official. These flags were produced at two distinct times—first in 1876 and later in 1888 and 1889—each time based on speculation about state admissions.

In 1876, as the United States approached its Centennial, flag makers anticipated the admission of another state alongside Colorado, leading to the creation of thirty-nine star flags, skipping over the thirty-eight star version. This speculative star count was reflected in various patriotic items, including Centennial quilts, though it was ultimately incorrect as only Colorado was admitted.

The second wave of thirty-nine star flags appeared in 1888 and 1889, when it was widely expected that the Dakota Territory would be admitted as a single state. However, political disagreements, including regional disputes within Dakota, led Congress to divide the territory into North Dakota and South Dakota. On November 2, 1889, President Benjamin Harrison signed proclamations admitting both as separate states on the same day. This unexpected decision rendered the thirty-nine star flags obsolete, as the official star count quickly jumped from thirty-eight to forty, and eventually forty-three by 1890. Despite never being official, these thirty-nine star flags remain fascinating historical artifacts, capturing a period of uncertainty and anticipation during the rapid westward expansion and state admissions of the late 19th century.

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 Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: The frame is a mid-to-late 1840s country faux bois design with bold red and black tones, imitating wood grain. It has a rustic yet striking appearance, showcasing the intricate grain patterns and enhancing its antique charm.

Condition Report: There is foxing throughout its surface. There are a plurality of stains surrounding the bear, the most notable of which is above him. There are two small tears positioned near the bottom left corner, and there is another small tear (i.e., hole) near the upper right corner. Overall, this flag is attractive, and its condition issues are acceptable, particularly given its outstanding overprint and rarity.

Collectability Level: The Great – Perfect for Rising Collectors
Date of Origin: 1888
Number of Stars: 39
Associated War: Indian Wars (1860-1890)
Associated State: North Dakota and California