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  38 Star American National Flag -- Loose Columns of Stars -- Bright Blue Canton

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L):
Flag Size (H x L): 70" x 85"
Description....:
38 Star American National Flag (1876-1889). The stars are roughly configured in columns, which is unusual. Their placement is askew and their vertical positioning exhibits great variation. These are desirable folk traits, and when combined with the flag's squarish proportions and cornflower blue canton, contribute to a design that has rather dramatic impact. The 38th state, Colorado, received its statehood on August 1st, 1876. This was just 28 days after the Nation's Centennial, which occurred on July 4th. Although 37 was the official star count at the Centennial, flag-making was a competitive venture, and no one wanted to be making 37 star flags when others were making 38's. Since everyone was aware that Colorado would soon enter, 38 is the star count most often seen at the Centennial celebration. Construction: The cotton muslin stars are hand-sewn and double-appliqued (applied to both sides of the flag). One of the stars on one side was treadle-sewn, apparently as an experiment to measure the difficulty involved. The canton is constructed of a double-layer of thin blue cotton. Each side is comprised of 2 lengths of material which are treadle-pieced. The stripes are treadle-sewn, which is typical for the period. The red stripes are cotton, while the white stripes are either a wool/cotton or a wool/silk blend. There is a heavy canvas sleeve with 3 whip-stitched grommets. Mounting: The flag has not yet been mounted. For an additional cost it can be mounted in an archival manner and encased in a plexiglas museum box with a U.V. protective front. Condition: There are 3 small threadbare areas in the 4th, 5th, and 6th white stripes. These are not serious, and can be easily stabilized during the mounting process. There is minor foxing throughout, and a minor hole in the top corner at the fly end. Otherwise there are no serious condition issues.
Collector Level: Intermediate-Level Collectors and Special Gifts
Flag Type: Sewn flag
Star Count: 38
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1889
State/Affiliation: Colorado
War Association: 1866-1889 Indian Wars
Price: No
 

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