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  13 STARS, CIVIL WAR PERIOD, 1861-65, IN A RARE VARIATION OF A WREATH DESIGN THAT HAS MORE OF AN OCTAGON PROFILE THAN CIRCULAR AND IN A RARE, LARGE SIZE AMONG KNOWN EXAMPLES

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 18" x 14"
Flag Size (H x L): 11.5" x 6.75"
Description....:
13 STARS, CIVIL WAR PERIOD, 1861-65, IN A RARE VARIATION OF A WREATH DESIGN THAT HAS MORE OF AN OCTAGON PROFILE THAN CIRCULAR AND IN A RARE, LARGE SIZE AMONG KNOWN EXAMPLES:

13-Star American national parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. This is a very rare example for three reasons. One is the fact that it likely dates to the Civil War period (1861-65), while most 13 star parade flags date to the celebration of our nation's centennial of independence in 1876. Two is the sheer size of the flag. While seemingly small, this is actually one of the largest varieties of 13 star parade flags known to exist. And three is the fact that the wreath of stars is more octagonal than round, with stars placed in groups of two around an extra large center star.

This is not only a scarce example, but beautiful as well, with attractive colors and expected wear from obvious use. I have seen only a small handful of these flags over the years in this size and style, which is why I suggest that they should hold a place of prominence in any collection.

13 star flags have been used throughout our Nation's history for a variety of purposes. Among other uses, 13 star flags were carried by soldiers during the Mexican and Civil Wars and displayed at patriotic events, including Lafayette's visit in 1825-26, the celebration of the Nation's Centennial in 1876, and the Sesquicentennial in 1926. The U.S. Navy used the 13 star count on small boats, not only in the 18th century, but throughout much or all of the 19th century, particularly the second half. That practice ended in 1916 following an executive order from President Woodrow Wilson. Some private ships also used 13 star flags during the same period as the Navy, and the use of yachting ensigns with a wreath of 13 stars surrounding an anchor, which began in 1848, still persists today.

Mounting: The flag has been hand-stitched to 100% rag mat and placed in a red painted molding, with a beveled profile, that dates to the period between 1830 and 1860. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is u.v. protective.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1861
Latest Date of Origin: 1865
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association: 1861-1865 Civil War
Price: SOLD
 

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