Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  39 STARS, PROBABLY 1876, NEVER AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, NEVER ACCURATE, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 14.75" x 21.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 7.5" x 12.5"
Description....:
39 STARS, PROBABLY 1876, NEVER AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, NEVER ACCURATE, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING:

39 star American national parade flag, printed on cotton muslin. The stars are arranged in a rectilinear fashion, but point in various directions on their vertical axis. This adds an interesting element of folk quality and demonstrates the kind of creativity often seen in pre-1912 flag making. Other interesting characteristics of this flag include its slightly elongated proportions, its relatively small, square canton, and its aqua blue coloration.

39 star flags were made at two different times in the late 19th century. The first were made in 1876 in anticipation of the addition of two new states. Only one of these states was added (Colorado on August 1st), which brought the star count to 38. This meant that the 39 star flags made in this year were soon defunct. Thirteen years later, 39 star flags were made again with the anticipation of the addition of the Dakota Territory. On November 2nd of 1889, the Dakotas came in as two different states (North & South), which forever rendered 39 star flags both inaccurate and unofficial.

In some cases, flag makers may have saved the 1876 print designs and used them again in 1889. It is also possible that some 39 star flags may have remained in the stock rooms of flag-makers and dry goods stores for more than a decade, to be brought out again when the actual addition of the 39th state finally loomed on the horizon. Because I have seen this style incorporated into quilts made for the centennial celebration, logic suggests that it is of the 1876 variety. This particular size is more scarce than others flags of the 39 star count, which also supports the theory that it is of the earlier period. In any event, the existence of 39 star flags is a classic display of both American capitalism and expansionist ideals for the growth of our nation.

Mounting: The two-part, veneered mahogany molding has tremendous, early surface and dates to the period between 1830 and 1860. The flag has been stitched to 100% cotton rag mat. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: There is moderate to significant foxing and staining throughout, accompanied by a tiny hole in the top red stripe, near the canton. The flag presents beautifully, however, and 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: 39
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: North Dakota
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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