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  13 STARS, MEDALLION PATTERN, 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, A LARGE, SCARCE EXAMPLE

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 12.25" x 9.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 7.25" x 4.25"
Description....:
13 STARS, MEDALLION PATTERN, 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, A LARGE, SCARCE EXAMPLE:

13 star American national parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. Made to celebrate our Nation's 100-year anniversary of independence 1876, the stars are arranged in a medallion that consists of a large center star, surrounded by a wreath of eight stars, with a flanking star in each corner of the navy blue canton. This was a popular centennial design.

While this flag might seem small in size, it is actually somewhat large among 1876 centennial parade flags with 13 stars. Generally speaking, the larger examples are scarcer among surviving examples and this fact, plus a bolder presentation, makes them more desirable.

Note the fat, starfish-like stars that point in various directions on their vertical axis. This adds a nice folk quality to the flag's design.

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 (150-year anniversary) 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 veneered mahogany frame has a beveled profile, retains its original surface, and dates to the period between 1840 and 1860. The flag has been placed in its correct vertical position, with its canton in the upper left. It has been hand-stitched to 100% hemp fabric. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: There is very minor foxing and staining, but there are no significant condition issues.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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