Frame Size (H x L): 15.75” x 19.75”
Flag Size (H x L): 9” x 13”  

Offered is a thirty-six star parade flag, a small-scale flag designed for short-term use at events such as parades, celebrations, rallies, and inaugurations. Parade flags like this one were created to add a festive touch to various kinds of public gatherings.

The stars a crudely shaped and positioned in a rectilinear 6-6-6-6-6-6 pattern. The stars in the first, fourth, and sixth rows are canted to the 1:00 position. The stars in the second row are generally in the 12:00 position. The stars in the third and fifth rows are canted to the 11:00 position.

The stripes are a distinctive orangish-red, resulting from the use of madder dye, which was commonly used between 1850 and 1880. This color adds an attractive and interesting visual element.

The thirty-six-star flag represents the inclusion of Nevada into the Union. Nevada was admitted on October 31st, 1864, and this flag became official on July 4th, 1865. Initially part of the Utah Territory from 1850, Nevada became its own territory in 1861 and achieved statehood in 1864. The timing of Nevada's inclusion was both politically and economically motivated. Politically, Nevada was admitted just eight days before President Lincoln's re-election bid against General George McClellan, benefiting Lincoln and his fellow Republicans. Economically, Nevada's significant silver mining industry made it an attractive addition, helping to pay off the country's war debts.

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 of 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 also served as the official flag during a portion of the Reconstruction era. The flag remained official until July 4th, 1867, when the thirty-seven-star flag was introduced to represent the inclusion of Nebraska into 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 Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: Flame mahogany. Highly attractive. Circa 1850. 

Condition Report: Significant signs of wear and aging. The fabric is faded, with visible stains, discoloration, and small tears. Even so, the flag is interesting and attractive.

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