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  39 CANTED STARS ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG DATING TO THE 1876 CENTENNIAL, NEVER AN OFFICIAL STAR COUNT, REFLECTS THE ANTICIPATED ARRIVAL OF THE DAKOTA TERRITORY

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 15.5" x 19.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 8.25" x 11.75"
Description....:
39 star American parade flag, printed on plain weave cotton. Note how the stars, which are arranged in a rectilinear fashion, are canted at an angle. When viewed on the obverse (front) some of these have one point directed toward the 11:00 position, while others are not tipped quite as far, and are directed at roughly 11:30. Because some of the rows contain 7 stars and some contain 6, and because the rows are justified, the spacing between stars also varies. Also note the proportions of the blue canton, which are near-to-square as opposed to rectangular. The combination of these features lends to interesting visual qualities, as does the striking, royal blue coloration.

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 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 inaccurate. 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 obsolete 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 once again 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 was mounted and framed within 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 beveled profile frame dates to the period between roughly 1840 and 1860, and so actually pre-dates the flag. The background is 100% cotton twill, black in color. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass. Feel free to contact us for more details.

Condition: There is moderate fading of the red dye throughout, but there are no other significant condition issues.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 39
Earliest Date of Origin: 1876
Latest Date of Origin: 1876
State/Affiliation: North Dakota
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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