Frame Size (H x L): 23.5” x 31.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 13.5” x 21.5”

Offered is an extremely scarce forty-star parade flag, dating to 1889. It is made of plain weave cotton, and its stars are arranged in a 7-7-6-6-7-7 pattern.  The stars in the first, third, and fifth rows are canted to the 11:00 position, while the stars in the second, fourth, and sixth rows are canted to the 1:00 position. 

In 1889, a significant transformation occurred within the United States as the Dakota Territory was divided into North Dakota and South Dakota. Both states were admitted to the Union on November 2nd, 1889, marking a pivotal moment in the country's expansion. This momentous occasion was quickly followed by Montana's statehood on November 8th, 1889, becoming the forty-first state.

The wave of statehood continued with Washington's admission on November 11th, 1889, just three days after Montana, establishing it as the forty-second state. This swift sequence of incorporations highlighted the United States' westward expansion and necessitated frequent updates to the national flag. The addition of these states played a crucial role in shaping the political and geographical landscape of the country, reflecting the relentless progress and ambition characteristic of late 19th-century America.

The rapid addition of new states in 1889 created a unique challenge for the design of the American flag. With North Dakota and South Dakota's admission, the flag featured forty stars for only six days before Montana's entry rendered it outdated. The forty-one-star flag was the official design for just three days before Washington's admission required another redesign. These frequent changes underscore the evolving identity of the United States and the importance of the flag as a symbol of national unity and pride.

As a result of this rapid succession of state admissions, flag makers produced large quantities of forty-two star flags, anticipating further additions to the Union. In contrast, hardly any forty or forty-one-star flags were made, given their extremely brief periods of relevance. Consequently, there are only a few known examples of printed forty-star flags in circulation, making them highly desirable to collectors. These rare flags serve as tangible remnants of a fleeting moment in American history, capturing the rapid pace of the nation's expansion during this era.

The path to statehood for these territories was shaped by a combination of settlement, economic development, and political maneuvering. The Dakota Territory, initially organized in 1861, saw rapid growth due to the influx of settlers drawn by the promise of fertile land and the expansion of the railroad. As the population grew, the push for statehood intensified, leading to the eventual division into North and South Dakota. Montana's journey to statehood was similarly driven by the discovery of gold and other minerals, which attracted a significant population and spurred economic development. Washington's path was influenced by its strategic location and burgeoning industries, including timber and fishing, which provided the economic foundation necessary for statehood.

Each of these new states brought unique characteristics and contributions to the Union, further enriching the nation's cultural and economic fabric. The continuous update of the American flag during this period serves as a historical record of the country's rapid expansion and dynamic growth, symbolizing the ever-changing landscape of the United States. The scarcity of certain flags from this era adds intrigue and value, reflecting the historical significance and the swift pace at which the nation was evolving.

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, the fabric was first washed in a standard wash and then in a dye setting wash.  The flag is positioned behind Optium Museum Acrylic.

Frame: This frame is crafted from the olive wood, with veneers buffed with natural beeswax for a perfect finish. Made in Italy, it embodies both elegance and craftsmanship.  

Condition Report: The antique 40-star American flag is in overall good condition with vibrant colors and intact fabric. However, there are a couple of noticeable stains on the white stripes. Despite these imperfections, the flag remains a significant historical artifact.

Collectability Level: The Best – Perfect for Advanced Collectors  
Date of Origin: 1889 
Number of Stars: 40
Associated War: Indian Wars (1860-1890)  
Associated State: South Dakota