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  CIVIL WAR ERA PARADE FLAG WITH 36 STARS IN A VERY RARE FORM THAT DISPLAYS A "U" FOR UNION

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 25.25" x 19.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 17.25" x 11.25"
Description....:
CIVIL WAR ERA PARADE FLAG WITH 36 STARS IN A VERY RARE FORM THAT DISPLAYS A "U" FOR UNION:

36 Star, Civil War era (1864-67) American parade flag, printed on cotton, with an exceptionally rare, lineal star configuration that is framed on three sides by a "U" for "Union". This is one of a highly interesting group of known flags that display such imagery; a subtle, Civil War message. Similar designs are known in other star counts, including 34 and 13 stars (also Civil War period), but all are extremely rare. This particular flag is one of only two such examples that I have so-far encountered.

The star pattern here is also closely related to a group of known configurations that depict what I have termed a "beehive". A common Masonic symbol, beehives appear in early American imagery on paper currency and other printed material, as well as patriotic textiles. It was a seeming accurate representation of colonists' ideals regarding hard work and industry, and likewise supported the notion that if united together, the colonies could accomplish more than they could as individual entities. If turned upside-down, these lineal patterns with a beehive-shaped perimeter also show the "U" for "Union". Sometimes seen during the war, but more often after, the message displayed in such flags may have served a dual purpose for Civil War vets, reflective of their Union Army service and the labor-related Fraternal groups they joined that boomed during the industrial revolution.

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.

Note that the initials "C. M. B." are penciled in the 3rd white stripe in fanciful script. These are the initials of a former owner. It was common in the 19th century to mark both printed and sewn flags in this fashion to indicate ownership.

Mounting: The gilded molding dates to the period between 1830 and 1860. 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 glass, which is u.v. protective.

Condition: Excellent, with only very minor staining.
Collector Level: Advanced Collectors and the Person with Everything
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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