Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  38 STARS WITH SCATTERED POSITIONING, COLORADO STATEHOOD, 1876-1889

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 16" x 21.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 8.75" x 14"
Description....:
38 STARS WITH SCATTERED POSITIONING, COLORADO STATEHOOD, 1876-1889:

38 star American national parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. Note how the stars are arranged in justified rows of 7-6-6-6-6-7 and are oriented in a variety of positions on their vertical axis. The combination of different numbers of stars in the rows and differing positions results in a lot of visual movement, lending a nice folk quality to the overall design.

Colorado became the 38th state on August 1st, 1876. This was just 28 days after the official centennial celebration, which took place on July 4th. Although 37 was the official star count in 1876, flag-making was a competitive venture, and no one wanted to be making 37 star flags when others were making 38’s. It is for this reason that counts of 38 and 13 (to reference the original 13 colonies) stars are more often seen on flags made in the year of the centennial. Some makers were actually producing 39 star flags, in hopeful anticipation of the addition of another Western Territory. The 38 star flag was generally used until 1889, when four new states joined the Union.

Mounting: The inner portion of the frame is a veneered mahogany molding that dates to the period between 1830 and 1860. To this I added a modern molding around the perimeter, in a precise size and style to one that originally accompanied it, which had been damaged. The flag has been hand-stitched to 100% cotton, black in color, that has been washed to reduce excess dye. An acid-free agent was added to the wash to further set the dye and the fabric was heat-treated for the same purpose. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is moderate fading and minor soiling throughout, in addition to some misprinting of the blue pigment and a tiny tear at the bottom of the hoist. 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: 38
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1889
State/Affiliation: Colorado
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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