[Civil War] 39-Star Flag with Civil War Soldier?s CDV Portrait

Hand-sewn cotton flag with 39 single-appliqu?d stars configured in a triple medallion surrounding a central star, flanked by four corner stars. The fly consists of 11 sewn stripes. [1889?]. Framed with an albumen CDV vignetted portrait of a Civil War soldier. 63 1/2 x 43 1/2, with frame. Canton: 24 x 21 1/2.

An unusual flag given the presence of 39 stars, a configuration that was never an official banner of the United States. In late 1889, it was widely believed that Dakota Territory would be admitted as the 39th state after Colorado in 1876. It was, however, divided into North and South and both states were admitted on 2 November 1889. And by July 1890, Washington, Montana, and Idaho had all gained admittance, bringing the Union to 43 states.

A rare variation of Old Glory with an attractive star layout.

The photographed soldier?s identity is unknown, though it seems he likely had some connection to the flag. The photo and the flag have not been inspected outside their frame. In-house shipping is not available for this lot.

Condition: Some separation of fabric, occasional brown stains.





[Flags, Patriotic Textiles, Civil War, Western Americana, Western Expansion, Dakota Territory, Early Photography, Albumen Photography, CDV, Carte de Visite, Union, Confederate, Indian Wars]