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  13 STARS IN A MEDALLION PATTERN ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG MADE FOR THE 1876 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION; A LARGE EXAMPLE AMONG ITS COUNTERPARTS OF THE PERIOD

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 13.75" x17.5"
Flag Size (H x L): 5.75" x 9"
Description....:
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 stars are arranged in a medallion pattern 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 approximately five-and-three-quarter inches by nine inches, this is actually the largest variety of 13 star parade flag that is regularly encountered in this period. Note the beautiful shade of cobalt blue and its bold contrast against the scarlet red stripes.

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 1824-25, 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 while 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 a fouled anchor, which allowed pleasure boats to bypass customs between 1848 and 1980, persists today without an official purpose.

Mounting: The flag was mounted and framed in our own conservation department, which is led by expert staff. We take great care in the mounting and preservation of flags and have framed thousands of examples.

The solid walnut molding dates to the period between 1860 and 1880 and retains its original surface and original gilded liner. The background is black cotton twill. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: There is minor soiling in the white area along the hoist end, and there is very minor fabric breakdown and associated loss along the top edge. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type:
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association:
Price: SOLD
 

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