Frame Size (H x L): 21” x 38”
Pennant Size (H x L): 12” x 29”

Offered is an antique pennant, made for the International Live Stock Show, held in Chicago.  It is red and features overprints of a prize winning bull, hog, lamb, and horse.  The horse is haltered and held by a woman, who is also holding a championship trophy.   

INTERNATIONAL LIVE STOCK SHOW   
The International Live Stock Show, also known as the Chicago International, was a major agricultural exhibition held annually, from 1900 until 1976. The show was one of the largest and most prestigious events of its kind.  It featured a variety of livestock competitions, including judging of cattle, hogs, sheep, and horses, as well as exhibits of agricultural machinery, animal feed, and other related products.

Over the years, the International Live Stock Show grew in size and scope, attracting exhibitors and spectators from across the United States and around the world.  In the early 20^th century, the event became a key platform for promoting American agricultural exports to Europe and other global markets.  

Despite its success, the International Live Stock Show faced challenges in the postwar era.  Changes in the livestock industry, including the growth of large farms and the consolidation of meatpacking companies, led to declining interest in traditional livestock shows.  In addition, rising urbanization and changing consumer preferences reduced the appeal of rural-themed events like the Chicago International.

Ultimately, in 1976, the International Live Stock Show was discontinued due to declining attendance and financial difficulties.  Today, the legacy of the show lives on in the Union Stockyards Gate, a landmark entrance to the former stockyards site that has been preserved as a symbol of Chicago's agricultural heritage.

INTERNATIONAL AMPHITHEATRE
The bottom of the pennant offered herein includes an image of the International Amphitheatre, a multi-purpose indoor arena, opened in 1934.  The arena was designed by Abraham Epstein and hosted a variety of events, including concerts; sports competitions; political conventions; trade shows; and of course, the International Live Stock Show.  The International Amphitheatre hosted legendary musicians, such as Elvis and the Beatles, and several presidential nominating conventions.  However, due to facilities eventually becoming outdated and the decline of the livestock industry in the surrounding neighborhood, the International Amphitheatre eventually closed and was demolished in 1999.

ADVERTISING FLAG COMPANY
This pennant was made by the Advertising Flag Company (i.e., as indicated by the reference thereto under the champion bull).  It was founded in 1936 in Chicago, Illinois by Frank F. Smith, and quickly became known for its production of high-quality flags, banners, and promotional products.  Later, the company expanded its offerings to include custom-designed products and supplied flags and banners for major events.  In the 1960s, the Advertising Flag Company introduced new technology and production techniques, allowing for more complex designs and faster production times.  The company's legacy as a pioneer in the flag and banner industry continues to be felt today, with a wide range of products still available for customers worldwide. 

Conservation Process: This pennant 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 pennant, it was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The pennant is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: This pennant is in a reclaimed wood frame.      

Condition Report: There is some toning of the hoist strip.  But overall, the pennant is in excellent condition.

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts   
Date of Origin: 1940-1960