Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  42 STARS, 1889-1890, AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, WASHINGTON STATEHOOD, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): Approx. 25.25" x 20.75"
Flag Size (H x L): 17.25" x 12.25"
Description....:
42 STARS, 1889-1890, AN UNOFFICIAL STAR COUNT, WASHINGTON STATEHOOD, SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING:

42 star parade flag, printed on cotton muslin. The stars are arranged in a rectilinear fashion, but vary in position on their vertical axis. This adds a nice element of folk quality to the flag’s design.

The 42 star flag is interesting from a historical perspective, both because 42 was never an official star count, and because 42 star flags were only produced for about 8 months (November, 1889 – July 4th, 1890). The flag represents the addition of the Dakotas, Montana and Washington State, between November 2nd and November 11th, 1889. The 42nd state was officially Washington, but the four states gained their statehood only nine days apart and flag makers added four stars, accordingly, to the 38 star flag that was previously official.

After 1818, star counts became official on the 4th of July each year. A new star was therefore officially added on Independence Day for every state that had been added over the preceding “flag year”. Flag makers, however, did not wait for July 4th and official star counts. Flag making was a competitive industry and no one wanted to be making 38 star flags, for example, when their competitors were making 42 star flags and there were 42 states. Idaho received statehood on July 3rd, 1890, taking the star count to 43 just one day before 42 would have become the official number. This fact makes 42 star flags an interesting part of our heritage and a classic display of American capitalism.

Mounting: The flag has been placed in its correct vertical position, with its canton in the upper left. It was then hand-stitched to a background of 100% cotton twill, black in color, that was 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. The mount was then placed in a modern burled wood molding that has a Ralph Lauren sensibility, with a worn surface that is somewhat reminiscent of old leather. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is minor foxing and water staining. Many of my clients prefer early flags to show their age and history of use.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type: Parade flag
Star Count: 42
Earliest Date of Origin: 1889
Latest Date of Origin: 1890
State/Affiliation: Washington
War Association: 1866-1890 Indian Wars
Price: SOLD
 

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