Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  35 STARS, 1863-65, CIVIL WAR PERIOD, WEST VIRGINIA STATEHOOD, MEDALLION CONFIGURATION, HALOED CENTER STAR

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 29.75" x 38.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 19.25" x 28.75"
Description....:
35 STARS, 1863-65, CIVIL WAR PERIOD, WEST VIRGINIA STATEHOOD, MEDALLION CONFIGURATION, HALOED CENTER STAR:

35 star American national parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton and bearing a beautiful medallion configuration that has a huge, haloed center star. This is one of the boldest, wreath pattern, Civil War era designs and is in a rather large and highly desirable size among printed flags. In addition to these facts, there are far more parade flags known in the 34 star count, which was used during the opening two years of the war, than in the 35 star count, which became official in July of 1863. Although 35 remained the official star count until July 4th, 1865, following the war's end, most flag making, especially that which was not under military contract, would have included a 36th star upon the addition of Nevada on October 31st, 1864. This means that 35 star flags were realistically produced for less than a year-and-a-half. Scarcity is thus one reason why 35 star parade flags are so interesting, and another is the fact that they are often larger and more visual, with elaborate star configurations.

Although the name of the maker of this flag is unknown, the company is known to have produced at least six different star counts with haloed center stars. Examples exist with 30, 31, 34, 35, 36, and 42 stars.

Mounting: The paint-decorated molding has a gilded inner edge and a gilt ripple liner, dates to the period between 1840 and 1870, and is of exceptional quality. The flag has been stitched to 100% cotton, black in color, which was washed to reduce excess dye. An acid-free agent was added o the wash to further set the dye and the fabric was heat-treated for the same purpose. The front is U.V. protective acrylic.

Condition: There is minor to significant staining, which is most prevalent toward the fly end of the flag. There is minor fabric loss along the top of the canton, accompanied by minor holes along the hoist where the flag was affixed to its original staff. The flag presents beautifully. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use and the great scarcity of this example warrants practically any condition.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 35
Earliest Date of Origin: 1863
Latest Date of Origin: 1865
State/Affiliation: West Virginia
War Association: 1861-1865 Civil War
Price: SOLD
 

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