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45 STARS ON A SMALL SCALE FLAG WITH ELONGATED PROPORTIONS, 1896-1907, SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR ERA, UTAH STATEHOOD:



Description:
45 star American national flag in an unusually small size and with strong visual qualities. Utah became the 45th state in 1896. It had been attempting to gain statehood for many years, but remained a territory, primarily due to the fact that the Mormon Church and Utah authorities continued to be openly tolerant of polygamy. In 1890, Mormon Church President Wilford Woodruff published a manifesto that denounced the contract of �any marriages forbidden by the law of the land�. This gave way to Utah�s 1896 acceptance. The 45 star flag was generally used from that year until 1907, when Oklahoma joined the Union. Due to the Spanish-American War (1898) and Teddy Roosevelt�s famous world tour of the �White Fleet� (launched in 1907), this was an extremely patriotic period. Note how the points of the stars are especially sharp when compared to some other examples. Also note how the elongated proportions of the flag help to make it especially attractive. The stars of the flag are configured in staggered rows of 8-7-8-7-8-7, which is typical of this star count. While flags measuring between four and five feet are common today, this size is unusual small in flags with sewn construction that were made prior to the adoption of the 48 star flag in 1912. In fact, regular production of pieced-and-sewn, 3-foot and 4-foot-long examples does not appear to have begun until somewhat later in the 48-star period. As time progressed, use of the American flag became more decorative and less important in its role as a signal. During the 19th century, however, flags with sewn construction needed to be large in order to serve well in their utilitarian function. Lengths of 8-feet and longer are thus common. Even those examples made for decorative use were often very big; too large to easily frame and display in a modern indoor setting. The combination of the above traits makes for a visually interesting flag that is practical to display and enjoy. The canton and stripes of the flag are made of wool bunting that has been pieced by machine. The stars of the flag are made of cotton and double-appliqu�d (sewn to both sides) with a zigzag machine stitch. There is a sailcloth canvas binding along the hoist end with two brass grommets. Note the fine blue thread that is part of the weave of the hoist and adds to its attractive presentation. "3 x 5" is stenciled near the top of the hoist on the obverse side in faint black ink. This denotes its intended size in feet. In the center of the hoist on the same side, the name "Hocart" is inscribed with a dip pen. It was common for flags to be marked in this fashion during the 19th and early 20th centuries to indicate ownership. Mounting: The flag has been hand-stitched to 100% silk organza on every seam and throughout the star field for support. Then flag was then hand-sewn to a background of 100% cotton, black in color, which was washed to reduce excess dye. An acid-free agent was added to the wash to further set the dye, which was heat-treated for the same purpose. The mount was then placed in a black-painted, hand-gilded and distressed Italian molding. The glazing is U.V. protective acrylic.
Inventory Number:


Dealer	Jeff R. Bridgman American Antiques, llc
Contact	Jeff Bridgman	Phone: (717) 502-1281

Period:	19th Century (1801-1900)

Date:	1896-1907

Origin:

Condition:	There is minor mothing throughout, accompanied by minor soiling. , but there are no significant condition issues.

Measurements:	Frame: Approx: 40" x 68.5" Flag: 29" x 57.5"

Inventory	Other Inventory by this Dealer

Web-site:	http://www.jeffbridgman.com

Price:	SOLD

E-mail:	Inquire

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