This flag is another
example of a great and unexpected pattern for a thirteen
star flag. Collecting thirteen star flags can be
an area of flag collecting unto itself. They were
produced throughout our history and there are dozens of
unusual and sometimes unique variations of thirteen
stars. This is one of just three or four that I'm
aware of that consist of a circle of 10 stars
surrounding a triangular core of three stars. I'm not
certain of the the underlying meaning of the pattern,
but at least one example of the type was gifted to the
Masonic Lake Worth Scottish Rite Foundation. It's
very possible that the three stars are represent the
Masonic compass, and that these flags were made for use
by Masonic lodges. This is a particularly early example,
likely dating to the period of the Civil War based on
characteristics of its construction. The flag is
entirely hand sewn. Like other flags of the Civil War
era, the stars of the flag rotate freely on their axis,
a very folky and attractive feature for an antique
American flag. The canton of the flag consists of two
pieces of wool bunting with double-appliqué cotton
stars. The name G C Buck is written in
period 19th century ink on the hoist of the flag.
The hoist is a a sleeve, but interestingly, the rope
used to fly the flag is stitched to the outside of the
hoist, rather than running through the sleeve. The
condition of the flag is exceptional. Its size, at
50 inches x 90 inches, may seem large, but 7-1/2 feet is
relatively small for 19th century flags, which often
measured 12 feet or more. Although the specific
history of this flag is not known, the flag surfaced in
New England, and the name Buck along the hoist, and the
possible connection to Masonic tradition, means that it
may be possible to identify the original owner of the
flag. The flag is an extraordinary example of a
very rare star pattern, and holds a special place within
the gallery of thirteen star flags in the Rare Flags
collection. |
