Frame Size (H x L): 34” x 46.25”
Flag Size (H x L): 23.5” x 35”

Offered is a forty-six star flag with an 8-7-8-8-7-8 pattern and an excellent patina.  The stripes and canton of this flag are made of wool bunting, and each individual piece is machine sewn into place.  Its stars are made of cotton and sewn to both sides of the canton (i.e., double appliqued), using a zig-zag stitch.  It further includes a cotton twill hoist, but no grommets.  The unique trait of this flag is its small size in combination with its piece-and-sewn construction.  Most forty-six star flags in this manageable size are printed on a single piece of material (i.e., printed parade flags).  In contrast, this offering, in this size, is much rarer than its printed counterparts, and its piece-and-sewn construction makes for a more impressive presentation. 

The forty-six star flag represents the inclusion of Oklahoma to the Union.  Oklahoma was admitted on November 16th, 1907, and this flag became official on July 4th, 1908.  Many Native Americans were driven to the region now known as Oklahoma—as a result of the Trail of Tears and the Indian Relocation Act—and promised that the region would forever be an Indian Territory.  The allure of the Indian Territory’s agricultural opportunities, however, was a catalyst for the passage of the Indian Appropriations Act in 1889, which opened the territory to white settlement and lead to the Land Rush.  Oklahoma became known as the Sooner State, based on the large number of settlers who illegally crossed into the state, so as to get a head start and claim the best properties. 

Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and William Taft served under served under the forty-six star flag.  While it did not become official until 1908, many examples are anticipatory in nature and date to as far back as the 1890s.  The forty-six star flag was official up until July 4th, 1912 when the forty-eight star became official and began to represent the inclusion of New Mexico and Arizona in the Union. 

Conservation Process: This flag was hand sewn to silk organza, and both were hand sewn to cotton fabric.  The silk organza provides a strong layer of protection and a professional appearance.  The flag, the silk organza, and the cotton fabric were then 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: This offering is in our Large Distressed Gold Frame. 

Condition Report: This flag has several small holes and tears.  The most significant tear is near the fly end, likely as the result of relatively heavy use.  Many collectors prefer flags that show their use and age.  

Collectability Level: The Great – Perfect for Rising Collectors  
Date of Origin: 1907-1912
Number of Stars: 46
Associated State: Oklahoma