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  13 STARS IN A MEDALLION PATTERN ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG MADE BETWEEN APPROXIMATELY 1910 AND THE 1926 SESQUECENTENNIAL OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 10.5" x 7.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 2" x 3" on 6" staff
Description....:
13 star American national parade flag, printed on oilcloth-like cotton, affixed to its original wooden staff. The flag was probably made sometime between 1910 and the 1926 sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) of our nation’s independence in 1926. The stars are arranged in a medallion pattern that consists of a single center star, surrounded by a wreath of eight stars, with a flanking star in each corner.

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 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 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 black molding has a scooped profile, with red undertones and highlights. To this a rippled profile molding, black with gold highlights, was added as a liner. The background is 100% cotton twill, black in color. Spacers keep the textile away from the glass, which is U.V. protective.

Condition: There is minor misprinting.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 13
Earliest Date of Origin: 1910
Latest Date of Origin: 1926
State/Affiliation: 13 Original Colonies
War Association:
Price: SOLD
 

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