Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  13 STARS, MEDALLION PATTERN, 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION, A LARGE, SCARCE EXAMPLE

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 15.25" x 12"
Flag Size (H x L): 9.25" x 5.5"
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 Centennial of Independence in 1876, the flag has a medallion pattern canton that consists of a large center star, surrounded by a wreath of eight stars, with a flanking star in each corner. This was a popular centennial design.

While this flag might seem small in size, it is actually one of the largest known sizes 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.

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. The 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 solid walnut frame has nice early surface and a gilded liner and dates to the period between 1860 and 1880. The flag has been placed in its correct vertical position, with its canton in the upper left. It has been hand-stitched to 100% cotton rag mat. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is u.v. protective.

Condition: There is minor foxing and staining, accompanied by minor fabric loss around the perimeter, but the overall condition is expected and the presentation is very attractive. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use.
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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