Jeff Bridgman Antique Flags
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  WWI (1917-1918) SON-IN-SERVICE WINDOW BANNER

Available: Sold
Frame Size (H x L): 28.25" x 22.25"
Flag Size (H x L): 18" x 11.25"
Description....:
WWI (1917-1918) SON-IN-SERVICE WINDOW BANNER:

The practice of displaying a son-in-service banner became popular during WWI (U.S. involvement 1917-1918) and was continued or even increased during WWII. Families would display them in their front windows to signify the numbers of sons they had serving in the military during the war. There was one star for each child. The flags were traditionally composed of a rectangular white field with a blue star or stars, like this example, framed by a rectangular red border. Typically, if a soldier was killed, a gold star was applied over the blue. If other circumstances occurred, such as the soldier became a prisoner of war or missing in action, another color was used, such as purple or white. There was a whole list of colors to signify different statuses.

Such flags were also made for organizations (businesses, churches, etc.) Some examples are known with more than 200 stars, with one for each man (or woman).

Construction: The banner is constructed entirely of felted wool. The white panel is joined to the red with a zigzag machine stitch. The star is appliqued with a lineal machine stitch. There is a felted wool tape header with wool tape ties, with which it could be hung.

Mounting: The banner has been hand-sewn to 100% hemp fabric. The frame is a modern, burled wood, veneered example with a hand-gilded and distressed liner. Spacers keep the textile away from the glazing, which is U.V. protective glass.

Condition: There is very minor mothing and minor foxing and staining, but the banner shows its age gracefully and part of its charm as a wartime object is due to this fact.
Collector Level: Beginners and Holiday Gift Giving
Flag Type:
Star Count: Other
Earliest Date of Origin: 1917
Latest Date of Origin: 1918
State/Affiliation:
War Association: WW 1
Price: SOLD
 

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