Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
Sold Flags



  13 STARS IN A MEDALLION PATTERN ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 12.5" x 8.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 2.25" x 4" on 7.75" staff
Description....:
13 STARS IN A MEDALLION PATTERN ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION:

13 star American national parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton and affixed to its original staff. Made to celebrate our Nation's centennial of Independence in 1876, the flag has a medallion pattern canton that consists of a large center star, surrounded by a wreath of eight stars, with a flanking star in each corner. This was a popular centennial design.

The most common size of these 13 star medallion pattern centennial parade flags was two by three inches on a six-inch staff. At two-and-a-half by four inches, this size is slightly larger and significantly scarcer.

13 star flags have been flown throughout our nation’s history for a variety of purposes. They were hoisted at patriotic events, including Lafayette’s visit in 1825-26, the celebration of the nation's centennial in 1876, and the sesquicentennial in 1926. They were displayed during the Civil War, to reference past struggles for American liberty and victory over oppression, and were used by 19th century politicians in political campaigning for the same reason. The U.S. Navy used the 13 star count on small boats until 1916, because it was easier to discern fewer stars at a distance on a small flag. Commercial flag-makers mirrored this practice and some private ships flew 13 star flags during the same period as the Navy. The use of yachting ensigns with a wreath of 13 stars surrounding an fouled anchor, which allowed pleasure boats to bypass customs between 1848 and 1980, persists today without an official purpose.

Mounting: The solid walnut molding has a gold stripe in the center, ebonized trim, and dates to the period between 1870 and 1890. The flag has been hand-stitched to 100% hemp fabric. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is very minor soiling, but there are no further condition issues.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

Views: 2460