Frame Size (H x L): 45.5” x 63.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 34.5” x 52.5”

This remarkable Civil War era flag features thirty-four stars on its reverse and thirty-five stars on its obverse. Its thirty-four stars represent the inclusion of Kansas into the Union. Kansas was admitted on January 29th, 1861, and its star became official on July 4th, 1861. Its thirty-five stars represent the inclusion of West Virginia into the Union. West Virginia was admitted on June 20th, 1863, and its star became official on July 4th, 1863. The count remained official until July 4th, 1865, when the thirty-six star flag was introduced to represent the inclusion of Nevada in the Union.

THE STAR COUNT INCONSISTENCY
There are two primary theories regarding the differing star counts on this flag.

The first theory is that the maker of this flag anticipated the imminent addition of new states to the Union. The presence of differing star counts on either side indicates that the flag was created during a transitional period when the official star count changed. By incorporating 34 stars on one side and 35 on the other, the maker demonstrated an awareness of the evolving state of the nation, reflecting the dynamic nature of America's growth during that era. This approach shows a forward-looking and adaptable mindset, preparing the flag for the eventual official recognition of new states.

The second theory is that the inconsistencies in star counts were due to a lack of strict adherence to the official guidelines by flag makers of the time. During the 19th century, it was not uncommon for makers to produce flags with star counts that were either slightly higher or lower than the official count. This could be attributed to a more casual approach to flag production, where exact numbers were not always meticulously followed. Thus, the dual star counts on this flag might simply reflect this undisciplined practice, rather than a deliberate anticipation of state additions.

Regardless of which theory is correct, flags with differing star counts are exceptionally rare and desirable.

DESIGN AND SYMBOLISM
This flag features a distinctive design where the stars are placed randomly, a visually interesting and desirable characteristic for collectors and viewers. Such irregularities add uniqueness and visual interest to the flag, reflecting the period's lack of standardization in flag design.

A significant feature of this flag is the large canted star in the middle, referred to as the "center star." The center star represents the newest state added to the Union. For instance, on a thirty-five star flag, the center star represents West Virginia. The remaining stars are arranged around the center star and canted to various angles.

Regarding U.S. flags generally, the star pattern was not made official until 1912, when an executive order established a uniform arrangement for the stars on the U.S. flag. This executive order, issued by President William Howard Taft, standardized the star arrangement for the first time. It specified the precise placement and alignment of the stars in six horizontal rows of eight each, with a single point of each star pointing upward. This standardization was essential to ensure uniformity in the flag's appearance, reflecting a more cohesive national identity. Prior to this order, flag designs varied widely, with different star patterns and counts depending on the maker's interpretation and the addition of new states to the Union.

HOMEMADE CONSTRUCTION AND UNIQUE FEATURES
This is a homemade flag. Homemade flags stand out in the realm of flag collecting, and for good reason. These flags—crafted with personal care by the hands of individuals, rather than mass-produced in factories—hold a unique story and have character. Every stitch, imperfection, and design choice speaks to the time, place, and the person who created it. Unlike their mass-produced counterparts, homemade flags often carry with them the emotions, hopes, and spirit of the times they were made in. This intimate connection to history, combined with their one-of-a-kind nature, makes homemade antique flags a treasure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The flag described herein is made entirely of cotton. Its stripes are individually cut and handsewn together, and they are similarly handsewn to the blue canton. The stars of this flag are made of cotton, and they are handsewn to both sides of the canton (i.e., double appliqued).

The allure of an antique flag often hinges on its size. Overly large flags can bring about challenges, from the intricacies of framing to the complexities of shipping, deterring many potential collectors. On the other end of the spectrum, flags that are too small can miss out on the "wow factor," failing to leave a lasting impression. The flag offered herein is a piece that embodies the perfect balance in size. Neither too big nor too small, it captures the essence of history while being both manageable and impressively captivating. This ideal size ensures that it can be appreciated and showcased with ease, placing it at the pinnacle of desirability among antique flags.

This flag is also notable for its unique construction, where the canton rests on the third white stripe instead of the fourth, which is the standard placement on traditional U.S. flags. This deviation was likely a mistake by the maker or due to a lack of familiarity with the correct design of the flag during that era. This unusual feature adds to its visual interest and enhances its collectability, as it reflects a time when the U.S. flag was neither universally recognized nor consistent.

Conservation Process: This flag was handsewn to cotton fabric, and both were handsewn 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. Optium Museum Acrylic is renowned for its exceptional clarity, UV protection, and anti-reflective properties, making it an ideal choice for preserving and displaying artwork and artifacts.

Frame: This frame is a blend of contemporary and traditional styles, designed to bring the beauty of nature to any setting. Made in Italy and finished in an opaque black color, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to an office, home, or other environment.

Condition Report: The flag is in a well-worn condition, with visible signs of aging and use. The colors of the stripes and canton are faded, the fabric exhibits some staining, and there are small tears and fraying along the edges. This flag is age-appropriate and visually stunning.

Collectability Level: The Extraordinary – Museum Quality Offerings
Date of Origin: 1861-1865
Number of Stars: 34 on the reverse and 35 on the obverse
Associated War: The Civil War (1861-1865)
Associated States: Kansas and West Virginia