Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  36 STAR FLAG OF THE CIVIL WAR ERA WITH UNUSUALLY LARGE AND ESPECIALLY FOLKY STARS THAT EXHIBIT SCATTERED VERTICAL ORIENTATION, 1864-1867, REFLECTS NEVADA'S ADDITION AS THE 36TH STATE

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 16.5" x 12.5"
Flag Size (H x L): 10" x 6.5"
Description....:
36 Star, Civil War era (1864-67) American parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. The stars are arranged in 6 justified rows of 6, but their position on their vertical axis varies greatly. Note how the stars are so large with respect to the available space that their arms are intertwined and in some cases actually touch. Also note the shape of the stars, many of which exhibit strong folk qualities that translate into the overall design. Their crude shape is a byproduct of the block printing, which was done by hand.

Because there was no official star configuration until 1912, the decision of how to arrange them within the canton was up to the individual flag-maker. Even when the stars were arranged in rows or columns, seldom did they all have one point facing upward.

Lincoln pushed Nevada through to statehood on October 31st, 1864, during the Civil War, and just 8 days before the November election. The territory’s wealth in silver was attractive to a nation struggling with the debts of war and so increased support for the Republican ticket. While the 36th star wasn't officially added until July 4th of the following year, the makers of printed flags are known to have begun adding the 36th star as early as July of 1864, several months before the addition of Nevada actually occurred. This was a common practice during the late 19th century and is reflective of both the nation's desire for Westward Expansion and the hope of flag-makers to bring new star counts to market before their competitors. The 36 star flag was officially replaced by the 37 star flag in 1867, following the addition of Nebraska.

Mounting: The flag was mounted and framed within our own conservation department, which is led by expert trained staff. We take great care in the mounting and preservation of flags and have framed thousands of examples.

The solid walnut molding has ebonized striping, a deep profile, and dates to the period between approximately 1870 and 1890. To this a modern molding with a rippled profile, black with gold highlights, was added as a liner. The background is 100% cotton twill, black in color, that has been washed and treated for color fastness. The glazing is U.V. protective plexiglass.

Condition: There is a minor misprint resulting from a fold that runs diagonally through the first and second red stripes. There is modest to moderate soiling in limited areas. There is some fabric breakdown and associated loss along and near the hoist end. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 36
Earliest Date of Origin: 1864
Latest Date of Origin: 1867
State/Affiliation: Nevada
War Association: 1861-1865 Civil War
Price: SOLD
 

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