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  Rare Rupublic of Texas Banner, 1861-1895

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L):
Flag Size (H x L): 31.5" x 33"
Description....:
Very rare "Republic of Texas" banner, dating somewhere between the U.S. Civil War (1861-65) and the 50-year anniversary of Texas statehood (1895/96). The Spanish were in control of Texas from 1519 until 1685. After being attacked by the French, the French flag flew there for 5 years. But then control returned to Spain and it remained in power so until Mexico gained independence in 1821. The Mexican flag flew in Texas from 1821-1836, when Santa Anna declared himself dictator. Then Texas itself declared independence. Sam Houston became president of an independent state called "The Republic of Texas", and the flag he approved to represent the Republic is the same one used today as the Texas state flag. It was not unusual, however, for other flags and banners to be made for use during periods of heightened patriotism, such as wars and important anniversaries. Nearly countless American Centennial Celebration pennants and banners bear witness to this fact. Texans have always been held in high regard for the sincerity of their patriotism. Even so, it is surprising how few Texas flags of the 19th century have survived into the 21st century. It is possible that many exist in private hands, but are seldom sold. In any case, it remains true that few early Texas flags of any sort are seen available for private purchase. Construction and Dating: The front of the banner is silk with gilt-painted lettering and a gilt-painted star. The back is made of cotton or a silk/cotton blend, and the perimeter of the front is decorated with a woven metallic fringe. The seam used to form a sleeve that runs horizontal across the top of the banner is hand-stitched. The metallic fringe is applied with treadle-machine stitching. The treadle-sewing used to attach the metallic fringe does not resemble that which is found in pre-Civil War items. While treadle-sewing can be found in 1840's American textiles, this flag is doubtfully of that period. Texas was not likely a target for importation of the first English sewing machines, and sewing machines were not widely available in the states at that time. Further, it is doubtful that this patriotic Texas flag was made in New York or some other eastern port town where sewing machines would have been present in greater quantity. In addition, the woven metallic decoration seen here was primarily used in flags and other banners dating between the Civil War and the turn of the 19th century. The height of use of its use was during the U.S. Centennial of Independence in 1876. Based on this fact and the nature of the machine-stitching, I would date the banner to either the Centennial Celebration in 1876, or the 50th anniversary of Texas statehood in 1895/96. Mounting: The banner has not yet been mounted. For an additional cost, it can be conserved and afterwards encased in a museum quality, ultra violet light protective, acrylic box. It can be conserved and framed in a traditional molding. Prices of options 2 & 3 vary by type of framing and the amount of labor required. Condition: There are no significant tears in the front, except in the center of the gilt-painted star, where there is moderate breakdown from several splits.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
Flag Type: Sewn flag
Star Count: Other
Earliest Date of Origin: 1861
Latest Date of Origin: 1896
State/Affiliation: Texas
War Association: 1866-1889 Indian Wars
Price: No
 

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