Flags
35-Star Civil War Period Hand-Sewn Stars American Flag
c. 1863 Civil War Period, 35-Star American Flag with Hand-Sewn Stars on Coarse Linen, Choice Very Fine.
The 35-Star Flag Flag became the Official United States Flag on July 4th, 1863. A Star was added for the Admission of West Virginia (June 20th, 1863) into the Union and was to last for 2 years. The two United States Presidents to serve under this 35-Star Flag were Abraham Lincoln (1861-1865) and Andrew Johnson (1865-1869).
This example is one of a tiny handful of Coarse Linen Flags with 35 Hand-Sewn Stars. This impressive 35-Star American Flag can be easily and dated closely as West Virginia became the 35th State on June 20, 1863, with the 36th State (Nevada) joining the Union in October 1864. This beautiful flag, measures about 91" x 52" (7.5' x 4.35'). It has sewn stripes and double appliqud hand-sewn Stars. The hoist has 2 brass metal grommets. The deep red color of the stripes remain strong, the white textile stripes have naturally toned off-white / light straw color, and the blue canton is bold. Some signs of prior use and a couple of small minor tears or thins as shown.
Coarse Linen made American Flags are scarce than those commonly seen as small handheld "Parade" flags, printed on cotton or silk. From the Civil War period (1863-65), most of the flags produced in this fashion appear to have served a military purpose, either as camp colors or perhaps as flank markers when need arose. A superior quality example for display.
West Virginia broke off from Virginia and was admitted into the Union as the 35th state (a Free State) on June 20th, 1863, just a few days before the battle of Gettysburg on July 1-3, 1863. The 35th Star was officially added on July 4th, and this flag would have been used during the closing years of the Civil War. Production would have generally ceased the following year, however, with the addition of Nevada as the 36th state on October 31st, 1864.
A rare American flag of the Civil War period with obvious suspected military purpose, with an extraordinary star configuration and in a great small size. Due to its attractive eye appeal, presentation, and function, this Pre-Gettysburg Civil War period 35-Star Flag would be a great addition to any American flag or Civil War collection.