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 This flag is a rare hand
sewn version of the Stars and Stripes made at a time
when most flags were becoming standardized in style and
mass produced. By the 1890s, flags were commonly
entirely machine stitched, with zig-zag stitched stars
arranged in rigid rows and fixed on their axis to point
in a uniform direction. This flag is unlike
virtually all of its counterparts. Its stars are
hand sewn with an unusual cross-hatch stitch. The
canton is rather elongated, with a very unusual seven
row arrangement of 7-6-6-7-6-6-7. The stars rotate
freely on their axis, giving the flag a charming and
folky feel. Their spacing is uneven, and they are
packed closely together on the narrow canton.  The
entire flag, including the stripes of the flag, are hand
sewn. This is very scarce on a flag of this
period, since sewing machines were so widespread.
The construction of the flag is more akin to a flag of
the Civil War period than its counterparts made at the
dawn of the 20th Century. The hoist of the flag
consists of a rope within a sleeve, along with guide
rings that are stitched to the flag. The initials
of the original owner of the flag, "W. E." are
embroidered onto the hoist in a vibrant purple thread.
Even among relatively common star counts, there are
always examples such as this beautiful flag that stand
out among its peers. |
