Antique 42 Star American Flag, circa 1889 to 1890
A large, authentic 42 star United States flag from one of the shortest star counts in American history. 42 was never an official star count. These flags were only made for about 8 months, from the admission of Washington, Montana, and the Dakotas in November 1889 until Idaho became a state on July 3, 1890. Most surviving 42 star flags are small parade flags, so a full-size example like this is much harder to find.
Details:
- Star count: 42, in 6 rows of 7
- Measures approx. 60.5" (hoist) x 79" (fly)
- Cotton construction with printed stars on the canton
- Canton machine-stitched to the striped field
- Heavy cotton twill hoist header with 2 brass grommets
- Deep indigo canton with strong red color in the stripes
- Includes a handwritten note from a previous owner recording the 42 star period dates (11/11/1889 to 7/3/1890)
Condition:
- Displays very well for its age, with strong overall color
- Toning and scattered age spots on the white stripes and header
- A few dark spots on the stars and on the stripes near the canton
- Several small holes, mostly in the red stripes along the bottom edge
- Small tear and light fraying at the fly end
- Seams and grommets intact
- Has not been washed or treated
Please see all photos, as they are part of the description. Flaws are shown in close-ups. This is a 135-year-old textile, and wear is consistent with age and use.
Ships rolled, not folded, and insured with signature confirmation.
Measurements of the canton available on request.
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