Frame Size (H x L): 11” x 14.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 4.25” x 7.5”

Offered is a thirteen-star parade flag.  It is printed on coarse, glazed cotton, and its stars are arranged in an oval medallion pattern.  The pattern includes a large center star, a ring of eight stars surrounding the center stars, and four flanking stars surrounding the ring.  This is the only known style of parade flag that exhibits an oval medallion pattern.  

This flag dates to between 1861 and 1876.  Thirteen-star flags were commonly used during the Mexican War in 1846-1848 and the Civil War in 1861-1865.  They were both relatively close in time to the revolution, and were very patriotic times, particularly during the Civil War time period when flag use became much more common than had ever previously been the case.  Thirteen-star flags were also flown during the centennial celebrations, which were held across the country and, most notably, in Philadelphia at the Centennial International Exhibition. 

While the size of this flag may initially appear to be small, it is actually an unusually large and rare size for the era.  Most thirteen-star parade flags made for the Civil War and centennial were between three and four inches wide. 

The original use of the thirteen-star flag dates to June 14th, 1777, the time at which the Continental Congress adopted a resolution creating the first official flag.  The resolution stated, “Resolved, that the flag of the United States be made of thirteen stripes, alternate red and white, that the union be thirteen stars, white on a blue field, representing a new constellation.”  Thirteen-star flags were official from 1777-1795, but have been in use ever since.

Small US Navy boats used it as the ensign from 1795 until 1916.  Thirteen-star flags were also flown at the time of George Washington’s death in 1799 and to celebrate the nation’s 50th anniversary in 1824.  They were also flown in 1824 in honor of General Lafayette’s return to the US for his nationwide tour.  Celebrations for his Revolutionary War service were held in New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, along with many locations in the southern and western states. 

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 antique frame has a walnut outer layer and a gold inner layer.  It dates to between 1860 and 1890.

Condition Report: The flag exhibits a minor tear along its hoist edge, some minor fading, and some minor staining.    

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts 
Date of Origin: 1861-1876  
Number of Stars: 13 
Associated War: The Civil War (1861-1865)