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  39 STARS IN TWO SIZES, ALTERNATING FROM ONE COLUMN TO THE NEXT, NEVER AN OFFICIAL STAR COUNT, 1875-76

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 21.5" x 26.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 12.5" x 17.5"
Description....:
39 STARS IN TWO SIZES, ALTERNATING FROM ONE COLUMN TO THE NEXT, NEVER AN OFFICIAL STAR COUNT, 1875-76:

39 star American parade flag, printed on cotton bunting. This is one of only three basic styles known that use stars in two different sizes to make columns of equal height, all of which occur in parade flags in the 39 star count. This is an unusual size among them. The flag exhibits expected wear from extended use, attractively faded and with minor fraying at the top corner of the fly end.

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. Based upon the fact that other examples with columns of stars in 2 sizes are known to have been incorporated into quilts made to celebrate our nation's 1876 centennial of independence, logic suggests that this flag is likewise of the earlier variety. 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 flag has been hand-stitched to 100% hemp fabric. The mount was then paced in a red-painted and hand-gilded and distressed Italian molding. The glazing is U.V. protective acrylic.

Condition: There is moderate fading in the stripe field, accompanied by minor foxing and staining. There is minor fraying from extended use at the fly end and there are 3 tiny holes along the hoist end where the flag was affixed to its original wooden staff.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 39
Earliest Date of Origin: 1875
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: North Dakota
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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