Frame Size (H x L): 26” x 20.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 17” x 11.5”

Offered is a forty-six star flag made of cotton.  The stars are arranged in an 8-7-8-8-8-7-8 pattern.  As viewed from the reverse-mount position, the stars in the first and sixth columns are in the upright position.  The stars in the second through fourth rows are tumbling relative to one another.  With such an arrangement, the stars appear to unravel when viewed from the center and moving outwards.  Further notice that the arms of the stars are rather pointy and folksy in their appearance. 

The canton of the flag is a beautiful cornflower blue, and its stripes are a deep red.  The First Flag Act of 1777 specified the number of stripes and the colors of the flag, but did not specify the exact shades of each color, which is why some flags—like this one—have unusual colors.  The exact shades were not officially specified until 1934.     

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 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 is made of walnut and includes a gold inlay.  It dates to between 1860 and 1890.     

Condition Report: This flag has staining and foxing throughout canton and stripes.  It also has a series of holes along its hoist strip, as a result of this flag originally being affixed to a staff.  Further, it also has a small tear along the top of its fly end.  Still, this flag presents wonderfully, and we chose to conserve it—in part—based on its wonderful patina.  Many collectors prefer flags that show their use and age.  

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts  
Date of Origin: 1907-1912
Number of Stars: 46
Associated State: Oklahoma