Frame Size (H x L): 20.5” x 26.5”
Flag Size (H x L): 9.5” x 15.5”  

Offered is a forty-eight star American flag, printed on plain-weave glazed cotton. It features a staggered star pattern arranged in six rows of eight stars, the configuration adopted to represent the inclusion of New Mexico and Arizona into the Union. New Mexico was admitted on January 6th, 1912, followed by Arizona on February 14th, 1912, with the forty-eight star flag officially becoming the national banner on July 4th, 1912. While this rectilinear star arrangement was mandated by President Taft’s Executive Order 1556 on June 24th, 1912, earlier forty-eight star flags often deviated from this design. Prior to the order, flag makers exercised considerable freedom in their designs, resulting in variations, especially in flags produced during the late 19th century and early 20th century, up until the end of World War I.

The most distinctive feature of this flag is its overprint, which reads "RANDOLPH LODGE NO. 98 I.O.O.F." (i.e., Independent Order of Odd Fellows). The overprint, applied in stenciled black lettering, is placed diagonally across the red and white stripes and into the lower section of the blue canton, carefully avoiding the stars. The quality of the printing and the professional application suggest it was likely commissioned for a specific event or ceremonial purpose, such as a parade or lodge gathering.

Randolph Lodge No. 98, established on January 31st, 1848, in Salem, Ohio, was a prominent chapter of the I.O.O.F., an organization dedicated to the principles of friendship, love, and truth. The lodge played a significant role in the community, contributing to the formation of additional lodges in neighboring towns. This flag, discovered in Dayton, Ohio, highlights the lodge's historical reach and influence across the region and provides a tangible link to the patriotic and fraternal traditions of the era. While it is not confirmed whether this flag is the only remaining example, it is the first we have encountered and is undoubtedly a rare artifact.

The forty-eight star flag represents one of the most transformative periods in American history, flying as the nation grew into a global power. It served as the official flag for forty-seven years, the longest tenure of any flag design at the time, and spanned the presidencies of Taft, Wilson, Harding, Coolidge, Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower. This flag stood as a symbol of resilience and unity through significant events such as World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, as well as the Great Depression and the early years of the Cold War.

This particular example of the forty-eight star flag is unique not only for its rare overprint but also for its connection to a historic fraternal organization. It bridges the patriotic symbolism of the American flag with the ceremonial and community-oriented traditions of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. The combination of its rarity, overprint, and historical context makes it a remarkable artifact, representing both a significant era in American history and the enduring legacy of fraternal organizations in shaping local and national identity.

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 offering is in our Large Distressed Black and Gold Frame.

Condition Report: The flag shows small holes and tears throughout the fabric. There is overall yellow toning, with some areas exhibiting deeper yellowing, particularly along the stripes.

Collectability Level: The Good – Perfect for Beginning Collectors and Gifts
Date of Origin: 1896-1918 
Number of Stars: 48
Associated War: WWI, WWII, and Korean War
Associated State: Arizona