Price: Call 618-553-2291, or email info@bonsellamericana.com
Frame Size (H x L): 25.5” x 35”
Flag Size (H x L): 15” x 24”

Offered is a rare and historically significant silk Whipple-pattern flag, printed on silk and dating to between 1909 and 1912. This flag is an exceptional example of an alternative star arrangement considered for official use prior to the adoption of the standardized forty-eight star design in 1912.

Since the passage of the First Flag Act of 1777, which established the basic design of the U.S. flag, early flag makers exercised considerable freedom in arranging the stars. With each new state's admission, additional stars were added, but no official star pattern was mandated until 1912. This led to a rich variety of star configurations over the years, many of which reflected artistic creativity, patriotic symbolism, or political aspirations.

In 1912, as the United States expanded to include New Mexico and Arizona, bringing the total number of states to forty-eight, the federal government sought to standardize the flag’s design. On June 24th, 1912, President William Howard Taft issued Executive Order 1556, which established a uniform star arrangement of six horizontal rows of eight stars. The order also fixed proportions for the canton, stripes, and overall flag dimensions.

One of the most compelling alternative designs leading up to this official adoption was the Whipple Peace Flag, created by Wayne Whipple of Philadelphia. Whipple, an author and historian, was deeply interested in American symbolism and sought to create a flag design that honored the nation’s expansion while preserving a deep connection to its early history.

His design consisted of thirteen central stars, arranged in the shape of a great star, representing the original thirteen colonies. Surrounding this central motif was an inner ring of twenty-five stars, symbolizing the states admitted between 1776 and 1876. An outer ring of ten stars represented states added after 1876. Whipple purposely left large gaps in the outer ring so that additional stars could be incorporated as new states joined the Union. This unique design emphasized national unity, continuity, and peaceful expansion.

Whipple submitted his design to a national contest in which over 500 designs were considered. It gained national attention and even received interest from President Taft. Whipple himself referred to it as the "Whipple Peace Flag," reflecting the stability and optimism of the pre-World War I era.

Despite its artistic merit and symbolism, the War Department ultimately favored a simpler, rectilinear arrangement, believing it would be easier to produce and recognize from a distance. With the issuance of Executive Order 1556, the Whipple design was never formally adopted, making surviving examples exceedingly rare and highly desirable among collectors of historic flags and Americana.

The officially adopted forty-eight star flag was used from July 4th, 1912, until July 3rd, 1959, making it one of the longest-serving versions of the U.S. flag. It was the standard national flag during some of the most pivotal moments in American history, including World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

Eight U.S. presidents served under it, including Taft, Wilson, Harding, Coolidge, Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower. The flag remained in official use for forty-seven years, until the admission of Alaska in 1959 and Hawaii in 1960 led to subsequent redesigns with forty-nine and fifty stars, respectively.

This silk Whipple-pattern flag is a rare and historically significant piece of early 20th-century American history. As a representation of an alternative vision for the national flag, it stands as a testament to the evolving nature of American symbolism and identity. With its unique arrangement and deep historical roots, it remains a sought-after artifact for collectors of early U.S. flags, political Americana, and pre-World War I memorabilia.

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 blend of contemporary and traditional styles, designed to bring the beauty of nature to any setting. Made in Italy and finished in an opaque black color, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to an office, home, or other environment.

Condition Report: The flag is in excellent condition, with vibrant red, white, and blue colors that remain well-preserved despite its age. The silk is fully intact, with no visible fraying or significant damage, and the printed design remains crisp and well-defined. Some slight creasing is present, consistent with careful storage and handling over time, but it does not detract from the flag’s overall visual appeal and significance.

Collectability Level: The Best – Perfect for Advanced Collectors
Date of Origin: 1909-1912 
Number of Stars: 48
Associated State: Arizona