Frame Size (H x L): 28.5” x 23”
Flag Size (H x L): 18.5” x 13”  

Offered is a thirty-eight star parade flag printed on glazed cotton.  The stars are arranged in a beautiful medallion pattern.  The medallion includes four center stars surrounded by two concentric rings of stars, and four flanking stars—all of which are the same size.  This is an unusual pattern, as most thirty-eight star medallions comprise only two flanking stars, instead of four as shown on this flag.  Most makers included only two flanking stars, so as to leave room for further states to join the Union.   

The name, Neva, likely the original owner, is written along the bottom white stripe in pencil.  Antique flags often include the name of a previous owner, and we consider the inclusion of such information—even when written directly on the flag—to be both interesting and a positive.   

The thirty-eight star flag represents the inclusion of Colorado to the Union.  Colorado was admitted on August 1st, 1876 and this flag became official on July 4th, 1877.  Presidents Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Cleveland, and Harrison all served under this flag.  Colorado became known as the “Centennial State,” a result of becoming official just twenty-eight days after the centennial.  The official star count for US flags in 1876 was the thirty-seven star flag.  However, it was common for flag makers to produce anticipatory flags in advance of their official date, making the thirty-eight star flag—and for historical reasons, the thirteen star flag—the most common flags flown in 1876.       

The thirty-eight star flag was official until July 4th, 1890, the time at which the forty-three star flag became official and began to represent the inclusion of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Washington, and Idaho to 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: This flag is in a wood frame with a silver liner.  

Condition Report: The canton includes several minor tears and folds, particularly along the hoist.  The canton and the stripes exhibit some foxing and minor stains.  Glazed cotton flags tend to show some damage and fading, and many collectors prefer the signs of use and age that they exhibit. 

Collectability Level: The Best – Perfect for Advanced Collectors
Date of Origin: 1876-1889  
Number of Stars: 38   
Associated War: The Indian Wars (1860-1890)
Associated State: Colorado