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  13 Star Centennial Era Flag -- Rare Small Size -- Medallion Configuration

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 41" X 56.5"
Flag Size (H x L): 30.5" X 46.5"
Description....:
13 star American national flag, probably made for the Centennial Celebration in 1876. This beautiful wreath star configuration is typically seen on parade flags of the Centennial period, but seldom on sewn flags. The small size is extremely rare for this era and could scarcely be more desired. The stars are hand-sewn and double appliqued, made of cotton. The canton and stripes are of treadle-sewn wool bunting. There is a cotton sleeve that surrounds a rope hoist. This type of hoist construction, the small size, and the star configuration all suggest that the flag may have been used on a small boat, or flown from the stern of a larger craft. 13 star flags have been used throughout our Nation's history for a variety of purposes. In addition to their use during the Centennial Celebration, the U.S. Navy used the 13 star count on small boats, both in the 18th century and starting again in the mid 19th century. The Navy's use of the 13 star flag ended in 1916 following an executive order from then-President Woodrow Wilson. 13 star flags were displayed in celebration of Layfayette's final visit to the U.S. in 1825-26, were carried by soldiers during the Civil War, and were made to commemorate American independence on other patriotic occasions. Mounting: the flag has been hand-stitched to 100% silk organza for support, then to a background of black cotton twill, which was washed in an acid-free agent to set the dye. The hand-painted and gilded, black and gold Italian molding is contemporary. The front is u.v. protective plexiglas. Condition: Absolutely excellent for the period, with only very minor mothing.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
Flag Type: Sewn flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1890
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association: 1866-1889 Indian Wars
Price: No
 

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