Frame Size (H x L): 43” x 61”
Flag Size (H x L): 31” x 49”

Offered is a thirty-six star antique flag printed on coarse glazed cotton.  The stars are positioned in a rectilinear 6-6-6-6-6-6 pattern and are positioned squarely (i.e., they are not canted).  The stripes of this flag are closer to orange than red, and their appearance is striking.  Such a color is a result of the use of either madder or cochineal to create the red dye, and is common in flags dating to between 1850 and 1870 (and to a lesser extent up to 1880).  This is a large scale flag that measures 31” by 49”, which is two to three times larger than most of its parade flag counterparts.  It was originally affixed to a staff, as indicated by the tiny nail holes along its hoist strip.  It was most likely used at a parade or rally, perhaps to celebrate the end of the Civil War.   

The thirty-six star flag represents the inclusion of Nevada to the Union.  Nevada was admitted on October 31st, 1864, and this flag became official on July 4th, 1865.  Nevada was originally part of the Utah Territory beginning in 1850, became its own territory in 1861, and became its own state in 1864.

The timing of Nevada's inclusion was politically and economically based.  For political reasons, Nevada was admitted to the Union just eight days prior to President Lincoln's re-election bid against General George McClellan.  Such timing was meant to benefit Lincoln and his fellow Republicans.  For economic reasons, Nevada was included as part of the Union to help it pay off the country’s war debts.  Economically, Nevada was particularly attractive at the time, because of its significant silver mining industry.  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 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 was also the official flag during a portion of the Reconstruction era.  The thirty-six star flag was official until July 4th, 1867, the time at which the thirty-seven star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of Nebraska in 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 Conservation Clear Acrylic (standard) or behind Optium Museum Acrylic (per request).

Frame: This offering is in our X-Large Distressed Black Frame.  However, it can be reframed and would look great using any one of our Large or X-Large Frames, which are shown in the final two images.  The pricing associated with the different framing options may vary.  Reframing of an offering may delay shipment by up to two weeks.   

Condition Report: This flag has tiny nail holes along its hoist strip.  Additionally, this flag has some yellowing and discoloration, particularly along and parallel to its fly end.  These condition issues are age appropriate and are what gives this flag its desirable, folksy appearance.         

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