Frame Size (H x L): 29.5” x 36.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 21” x 28”

Offered is a homemade forty-nine star flag.  Homemade flags are amongst the most desirable and interesting of all antique flags.  They were typically made with whatever materials were available, and the placement of the canton, stripes, and stars is often times quite whimsical.  Almost all Forty-nine star flags were mass produced, so finding such a gorgeous, small scale, homemade example is quite unusual.  Its stars are arranged in a rare rectilinear 7-7-7-7-7-7-7 pattern, and are shaped like starfish.  A rectilinear star pattern is one in which the stars are aligned both horizontally and vertically.  In contrast, nearly all other forty-nine star flags have a staggered star pattern.   

The stars were affixed using some kind of glue or adhesive, instead of stitching.  Affixing the stars in this manner is usually seen with respect to materials that are difficult or fragile to stich.  Alternatively, affixing stars in this manner may also be the result of time or tool constraints. 

The forty-nine star flag represents the inclusion of Alaska to the Union.  Alaska was admitted on January 3rd, 1959, and this flag became official on July 4th, 1959.  President Eisenhower was the only president to serve under this flag.  Alaska was the first state to be admitted that was not part of the continental United States, following its purchase from Russia for just two cents an acre.  The forty-nine star flag was only official until July 4th, 1960 when the fifty star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of Hawaii 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 Gold Frame. 

Condition Report: This flag has some very minor tears and stains, but overall is in excellent condition.  It is a beautiful piece.   

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts
Date of Origin: 1959-1960
Number of Stars: 49
Associated State: Alaska