Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  39 STARS, 1875-76 OR 1889, NEVER AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, NEVER ACCURATE, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 14.5" x 19.5"
Flag Size (H x L): 7" x 12"
Description....:
39 STARS, 1875-76 OR 1889, NEVER AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, NEVER ACCURATE, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING:

39 star American national parade flag, printed on cotton muslin. The stars are arranged in a rectilinear fashion, but point in various directions on their vertical axis. This adds an interesting element of folk quality and demonstrates the kind of creativity often seen in pre-1912 flag making. Other interesting characteristics of this flag include its slightly elongated proportions, its relatively small, square canton, and its aqua blue coloration.

39 star flags were made at two different times in the late 19th century. The first 39 star flags were made in 1875 and 1876, in anticipation of the addition of two new states. Only one of these states was added (Colorado, in August, 1876), which brought the star count to 38. This meant that the 39 star flags made at this time were soon defunct. Thirteen years later, 39 star flags were made again with the anticipation of the addition of the Dakota Territory. On November 2nd of 1889, the Dakotas came in as two different states (North & South), which again rendered 39 star flags both inaccurate and unofficial. Flag makers may likely have saved the 1875-76 print design, and used it again in 1889. Or the flags may have remained in the stock room of a dry goods store for more than a decade, to be brought out again when the actual addition of the 39th state finally came about. Because I have seen this style incorporated into patriotic quilts made for the centennial celebration, logic suggests that this flag to be of the 1875-76 variety. This particular size is more scarce than others flags of the 39 star count, which also supports the theory that it is of the earlier period. In any event, the existence of 39 star flags is a classic display of both American capitalism and expansionist ideals for the growth of our nation.

Mounting: The flag is stitched to 100% cotton rag mat board and placed in an acid-washed oak frame of the early Arts & Crafts era (ca 1885-1900). Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is u.v. protective.

Condition: There is minor foxing and staining but there are no significant condition issues.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 39
Earliest Date of Origin: 1875
Latest Date of Origin: 1889
State/Affiliation: North Dakota
War Association: 1866-1889 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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