Of the many patterns of 13 Star flags that exist, this
particular pattern of 12 stars in the shape of a square
and a single center star is among the rarest. Known as
the Trumbull pattern after Revolutionary War patriot and
artist John Trumbull, who painted this configuration of
stars in at least three of his works: The
Battle of Princeton (1777), The Surrender of
General Burgoyne at Saratoga, New York (1777)
and The Surrender of Lord
Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia, (1781).
Although it is unknown historically if this pattern of
flag was actually present at these battles, Trumbull
served as second personal aide to George Washington and
deputy adjutant-general for General Horatio Gates, and
had deep first-hand knowledge of the war and the flags
that would have been flown. He also is known for
meticulous attention to detail. Regardless of whether or
not this pattern of flag was actually present on these
battlefields, the pattern has become
permanently associated with his name. This early Trumbull pattern flag is
very
rare. Most likely, there are perhaps five or fewer
Trumbull pattern 13 star flags of a sewn construction
known to exist. This particular example is exceptionally
beautiful among known examples, due to its wonderfully
traditional coloration and aged appearance. It truly is
a gem of an American flag. The flag has been lovingly
cared for and carefully patched, including the bottom
corner of the fly end, which was repaired with patterned
dress fabric. The entire flag is treadle sewn, and the
double-applique cotton stars are aligned and sewn with a
lineal machine stitch. The center star is slightly
larger than the outer stars, and is perfectly centered
and vertically aligned on the canton. The flag is
unusually small for flags of the period, yet another
appealing attribute of this rare and beautiful flag.
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