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Political and Patriotic Memorabilia For Sale
Period: 19th Century
Period: 1920s
69th Battery Royal Field Artillery Framed Commemorative Embroidery
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
69th Battery Royal Field Artillery Framed Commemorative Embroidery
A stunning piece, in fine detail applied and embroidered tapestry, showing the counties and campaigns from 1855 ...
Category
19th Century Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Silk
Thomas Jefferson Crannock Carved Cane
Located in Darnestown, MD
Unique carved cane that chronicles the life and achievements of Thomas Jefferson. Among the carved words are "Thos. Jefferson of Va Born Apr 2,1743 Wa...
Category
19th Century American Country Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
36-Star Printed American Flag, Rare Haloed Star Medallion, Circa 1865
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This 36-star flag has stars arranged in a gorgeous and highly desirable medallion pattern. This particular medallion includes a large haloed star in the middle, two rings of stars s...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Fabric
Large, Decorative Bronze Sculpture of a Spartan Warrior with Sword, Greco Roman
Located in Berlin, DE
Large and decorative bronze sculpture of a Spartan warrior.
By Professor Victor Heinrich Seifert. Signed.
Excellent masterpiece. On marble base.
Category
19th Century Austrian Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Bronze
Antique Federal Eagle American 50 Star Flag with Brass Eagle Pole, 19th Century
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Monumental 50 star American Flag with antique Federal Eagle brass and wood pole. A patriotic piece suitable for any home. This set includes both ...
Category
19th Century American Federal Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Brass, Bronze
Ulysses S. Grant Signed Presidential Appointment, Dated February 28, 1871
By Ulysses S. Grant
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Presented is an original Ulysses S. Grant signed Presidential Appointment, dating to February 28, 1871. Signed during the first term of Grant's presidency, the document appoints "Robert W. Healy" to the role of "Marshal of the United States in and for the Southern District of Alabama." The appointment is countersigned by "Hamilton Fish" as Secretary of State.
The document is partially printed in formal script, and completed by hand in black ink. The document reads in full:
“Ulysses S. Grant,
President of the United States of America.
To all who shall see these presents greeting:
Know ye, That reposing special trust and confidence in the Integrity, Ability, and Diligence of Robert W. Healy, I have Nominated, and, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, DO APPOINT HIM Marshal of the United States in & for the Southern District of Alabama; and do authorize & empower him to execute and fulfill the duties of that Office according to Law. And to hold and hold the said Office, with all the powers, privileges, and emoluments to the same of right appertaining, unto him, the said Robert W. Healy, for the term of four years from the day of the date hereof, subject to the conditions prescribed by law.
In Testimony Whereof, I have caused these Letters to be made Patent, and the Seat of the United States to be hereunto affixed.
Given under my hand, at the city of Washington, the Twenty eighth...
Category
1870s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paper
System Walking Stick, France, 1870
Located in Milan, IT
Gadget-System walking stick: shadow gadget cane with Napoleon profile on its ebonized wood handle. Malacca wood shaft. Iron ferrule. France 1870 circa.
Category
Late 19th Century French Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Iron
Pair 19th Century Victorian Eastlake Free Mason Throne Chairs w/ Symbolism
Located in Savannah, GA
Victorian Eastlake large upholstered solid oak throne chairs from Masonic Lodge with lots of detailed carving. The pair consists of one with the plumb bob sy...
Category
1880s American Eastlake Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Velvet, Oak
19th Century Patriotic Shield Painting Featuring John Adams
Located in Wiscasset, ME
Folk art patriotic shield painting of John Adams, dating to around 1876 and of a large size measuring 41" x 34.5". It is an oil on canvas laid down to boards. There is writing on the back of the boards, but I cannot make out what it says. There is another similar piece to this that features another signer of the constitution in the Smithsonian collection. This piece came from a collection in Portsmouth...
Category
19th Century American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paint
Rare Monumental 1890 Antique 42 Star United States of America Flag
Located in Dayton, OH
Monumental fifteen foot 42 star American flag, circa 1889-1890.
The 42-star flag is rare because only a limited number of 42-star flags were produced after Washington became a state on Nov. 11, 1889.
But it takes a more intimate knowledge of flag trivia to know just why it happened this way.
White stars are added to the blue field of the star-spangled banner on the Fourth of July after a state is admitted to the union. In the fall of 1889, several western territories became states.
Dakota was admitted, and then split into North and South Dakota, on Nov. 2, 1889, which made them state and star numbers 39 and 40. Montana was named the 41st state on Nov. 8, followed by Washington, on Nov. 11.
Only a few flag manufacturers began producing 42-star flags before the official addition of the 42nd star on July 4, 1890.
Those who tried to jump the gun by being the first to produce an up-to-date flag were surprised when Idaho was admitted to the United States on July 3...
Category
1890s American Classical Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
39-Star Antique American Flag with 'Whimsical' Star Pattern, 1889
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This is a 39-star unofficial American flag, handmade and printed on cotton. The flag dates to 1889 and has a unique history, thanks to its rare star-count.
The flag’s canton is prin...
Category
1880s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
Cast Iron Boot Jack Made for 1864 Presidential Campaign of George McClellan
Located in York County, PA
CAST IRON BOOT JACK, MADE FOR THE 1864 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN OF GENERAL GEORGE B. MC CLELLAN, WITH A FANTASTIC SLOGAN THAT READS "THE UNION AT ALL HAZZARDS"
Made for the 1864 presidential run of George B. McClellan, this cast iron bootjack is both rare and graphically exceptional. Displaying the original black-painted surface, with attractive and desirable patina, the stylized profile has a wonderful folk art quality. Molded block letters that wrap around the heel clasp read simply "Gen. Mc Clellan. These are accompanied by a prominent Civil War-associated slogan: "The Union at all Hazards." The text is intermingled with 34 stars, which was equivalent to the number of states during the opening two years of the war, but was one star short by mid-1863 and two stars short by the time of the actual election in 1864. It's not unusual to encounter this feature in civil war campaign parade flags as well as all manner of flag-related ephemera.
The iron was reportedly cast by G. & D. Cross of Morrisville, New York, though it is unsigned and I have not yet verified the attribution. I have seen two other examples, one of which had a broken and repaired tine on the U-shaped horns and newly painted surface, while the other appeared to have broken lifters and inferior, rusted patina. This is, hands-down, the best of the identified examples.
Brief History of the 1864 Campaign:
President Abraham Lincoln had a checkered relationship with his 1864 opponent, who he had formerly chosen as General-in-Chief of the entire Union Army. The career officer repeatedly knocked heads with his Commander-in-Chief. Having raised a well-trained and organized military force, McClellan often seemed reluctant to use it. By 1862, after losses in Virginia during the Peninsula Campaign, Lincoln grew frustrated with McClellan and the progression of the war and removed him from command.
By the early part of 1864 the American people shared some of the same frustrations and Lincoln was no longer the clear choice for the White House. The nation was tired of war and the remains of the Democratic Party...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Iron
31-Star Printed American Flag, Celebrating California Statehood, Circa 1850
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This is a rare 31-star medallion printed American flag, celebrating the addition of California to the Union. The flag is printed on silk and has a spectacular “Great Star” canton pat...
Category
1850s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Silk
Printed Linen Kerchief of George Washington, ca 1806, Germantown, PA
Located in York County, PA
Extraordinarily early (1806) printed linen kerchief glorifying George Washington, Germantown print works, Germantown, Pennsylvania
Printed in sepia ink on coarse, white linen, this patriotic kerchief shows a standing portrait of George Washington, above which is a swag valance and the words “The Effect of Principle, Behold the Man”. The portrait is based on a mezzotint after Gilbert Stuart’s very famous painting of Washington in his later years. Stuart painted it in oil on canvas for a wealthy merchant by the name of William Constable, who commissioned the work for Alexander Hamilton.
The kerchief is interesting because it is both American-made and documented. This is exceptionally unusual for any printed textile of the 19th century or prior and the earlier the time period the more unlikely an object is to be identified. This kerchief and a companion piece entitled “The Love of Truth Mark the Boy” (also glorifying Washington through the fabled story of the cherry tree), were made ca 1806 by Germantown Print Works in Germantown, Pennsylvania.
To the left of Washington's image is a portion of his infamous farewell address to his troops at the end of the Revolutionary War. To the right is a short excerpt from his eulogy. Below these are three images. In the center is a square-rigged tall ship with “Commercial Union” above it, flanked by the American eagle on the left and the British lion...
Category
Early 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Linen
1868 Map of the Upper Part of the Island of Manhattan Above 86th Street
Located in San Francisco, CA
This wonderful piece of New York City history is over 150 years old. It depicts 86th street and above. It was lithographed by WC Rogers and company. It was made to show what was the Battle of Harlem during the Revolutionary war...
Category
1860s American American Colonial Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paper
Pressed Brass Eagle, Parade Flag Holder and Bunting Tie Back, ca 1880-1895
Located in York County, PA
Pressed brass eagle, an early parade flag holder & bunting tie-back, an especially attractive example, circa 1880-1895
Pressed brass eagles decorated the interiors of Civil War ve...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Brass
19th c Wooden Ceremonial Fraternal Masonic Crook and Metal Spear on Metal Bases
Located in Savannah, GA
Large size gold gilt wooden ceremonial fraternal Masonic Crook perched on a long painted wooden pole. Supported by a decorative three-footed metal base, the gilt wood crook itself me...
Category
1890s American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Metal
Large Antique Hand-Painted English Grandfather Clock Commemorating Lord Nelson
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This very large and substantial antique grandfather clock was made in 1805 by William Whitaker of England with hand-painted artistry by Alker of Wigen to commemorate the life and dea...
Category
Early 19th Century English George III Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Metal, Brass
British Soldier's Woolwork or Woolie, 19h Century
Located in Pasadena, CA
This is an exceptional example of a 19th century British soldier's "Woolie" or woolwork that is signed "G.W. Whitby/India. The woolwork depicts the ...
Category
Early 19th Century English British Colonial Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool, Glass, Wood
1889 North Dakota 39 Star United States of America Statehood Flag
Located in Coeur d'Alene, ID
39 star silk statehood flag. 23 1/2" x 15". Was the unofficial North Dakota Flag. As South Dakota was also admitted as the 40th state on the same day this...
Category
1880s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Silk
19th Century Masonic Table with Leather Book Compartment Flip Lid Compass Legs
Located in Port Jervis, NY
Rare and fabulous 19th century faux book with compass legs as legs. Mustard paint on the legs with Gilt on the pages of the leather bound book. Looks to be original tassle.. Possibly...
Category
1860s American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Leather, Hardwood, Paint
19thc Stars Decorated Stone Ware Crock / Jug
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This fine salt glazed stoneware jar or storage jar has blue floating stars all over the face of the crock. It is in fine condition with no cracks a few minor chips around the inside ...
Category
19th Century American Adirondack Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Pottery
Ohio State Parade Flag with a Civil War Veterans Overprint
Located in York County, PA
OHIO STATE FLAG WITH CIVIL WAR VETERANS' OVERPRINT FROM THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC POST IN COLUMBUS, MADE IN MOURNING OF THE 1925 PASSING OF NATIONAL G.A.R. COMMANDER IN CHIEF DANIEL M. HALL, WHO ALSO SERVED AS COMMANDER OF THE OHIO DEPARTMENT OF THE G.A.R., AS WELL AS THE LOCAL CHAPTER
Flag of the State of Ohio, printed on oilcloth-like cotton, affixed to its original wooden staff. Made for Civil War veteran's use, the flag bears a stamped overprint in the striped field that consists of an open wreath of laurel branches, inside which is the following text: “GAR [Grand Army of the Republic] Post, Dan Hall, Columbus, OH”.
Born on October 20th, 1842, Daniel M. Hall enlisted with the Union Army as a Private at the age of 18 on August 25th, 1861. On October 8th of that year he mustered into the Co. H of the 2nd Ohio Cavalry. Discharged for disability on June 28th, 1862, he reenlisted approximately 17 months later, on November 11th, 1863, and mustered into Co. F of the 12th Ohio Cavalry at Camp Cleveland. He was at some point promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and, on February 21st, 1864, to the rank of Corporal. He mustered out at Nashville on November 14th, 1865.
Hall mustered into the Hamlin Post of the Ohio G.A.R. on May 23rd, 1883. He would go on to serve not only as Commander of the Dept. of Ohio for the organization, but as National Commander of the entire Grand Army of the Republic.
The Grand Army of the Republic was the primary veterans association for Union Civil War soldiers. Founded in 1866, its members dressed up in Civil War uniforms, attended parades and reunions, and the organization was somewhat more fraternal in nature than today’s VFW or American Foreign Legion.
Flags overprinted for the purpose of advertising are a specialized form in American flag collecting. A flag with a basic G.A.R. overprint is the most common type. This might be accompanied by a post number and a date. More elaborate the overprints are more highly desired, such as this one, which is the only variation I know of that honors a particular person who was not the namesake of the chapter itself.
It is of interest to note that a sister variety of 48 star parade flag is known, printed on the same fabric, that bears the same overprint, accompanied by the words: “We Mourn Our Comrade." From the additional text on the 48 star variety, one can extrapolate that the flags were made to mourn the passing of this important leader of Civil War veterans on October 19th, 1925, just one day before his 83rd birthday.
The State Flag of Ohio was designed in 1901 by Cleveland architect John Eisenmann, who designed the Ohio building for the state's exhibition at the Pan American Exposition World's Fair in Buffalo, New York. It was officially adopted by the Ohio legislature on May 19th, 1902. It's elements are centered on a red disc, set against a circular white ground that forms a letter "O." This simultaneously represents a buckeye, the fruit of the state tree and an iconic Ohio symbol. The flag's 5 stripes are said to represent the state's waterways and roads, while the triangular shape of the union is said to illustrate hills and valleys. The presentation of 13 stars along the hoist end, arranged in a semi-circular medallion with two off-set stars above and below, reflects the original 13 colonies. The diamond of stars, towards the fly end. bring the overall count to 17 to reflect Ohio's admission. When the design was adopted by the state legislature, the position of these stars was changed slightly, moving them further around the circle to form a wreath.
Flag expert Whitney Smith, who coined the term Vexillology in the late 1950's (the accepted term for the study of flags), pointed out that the format of the flag itself was reminiscent of Civil War cavalry guidons, carried by Ohio regiments throughout the state. These were of swallowtail form, though with 13 stripes, all horizontal and 90 degrees to the hoist. Most often these had circular star patterns around an open center, which makes them even more similar to the Ohio flag...
Category
1920s American Vintage Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
Centre Table Commemorating the Paris Treaty and the USA Independence, Dated 1886
Located in Amsterdam, NL
A very interesting centre table commemorating the Paris Treaty between the original thirteen states of the United States of America and Great Britain ending the American Revolution o...
Category
Late 19th Century American Directoire Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Bone, Wood
Japanese Screen Depicting USA Commodore Perry’s Flagship the USS Mississipi
Located in Amsterdam, NL
A rare and fine Japanese six-fold gold-leaf screen with the depiction of Commodore Matthew Perry’s flagship the USS Mississippi
Early Bakumatsu period (1853-1867)
Measures: H. 61 x W. 183 cm
Provenance:
Private collection, USA
On 8 July 1853 Commodore Matthew Perry with his paddle-wheel warships USS Mississippi and Susquehanna, and two sloops, with a total of 65 guns and little less than 1000 man, for the first time arrived in the harbour of Shimoda, in the bay of Edo, in his own words, “to open doors of commerce, and spread civilization to a backward people, and also to spread the Gospel of God to the heathen.” In Japanese parlance, the American ships quickly became known as “black ships,” depicted as demonic monsters. For the Japanese, these huge coal-burning ships...
Category
Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paint, Paper
Political Debates Between Abraham Lincoln & Stephen A. Douglas, Limited Edition
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
Lincoln, Abraham and Stephen A. Douglas. Political Debates Between Hon. Abraham Lincoln and Hon. Stephen A. Douglas, In the Celebrated Campaign of 1858, in Illinois, Including the Preceding Speeches of Each, at Chicago, Springfield, Etc.; Also, the Two Great Speeches of Mr. Lincoln in Ohio, in 1859. Cleveland: The Burrows Brothers Company, 1894. Limited edition printing, No. 168 of 750. Presented in ¼ leather and cloth binding, with gilt titles and raised bands to spine, with a new archival cloth slipcase.
This is a special limited edition printing of the political debates of Lincoln and Stephen Douglas...
Category
Late 19th Century Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paper
Original Painted Metal Parade Flag
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This fun and folky 20thc original painted parade flag sign was used to hand in the windows during patriotic events. In stores and homes in the early 20thc.
Category
Late 19th Century American Adirondack Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Tin
Odd Fellows Wooden Pedestal Pair 19th c
Located in Savannah, GA
Very sturdy 19th century wooden Odd Fellows Lodge pedestals in all original condition. Quite rare to find the three rings attached separately, this pair is handmade with the three links in gilded wood. Great stands for Folk Art displays. Square tops measure 12 inches across, bases measure 13.50 inches.
I. O. O. F. (International Order of Odd Fellows)
Category
1890s American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
19th Century Gilt and Gesso Frame attributed to President James Polk Estate
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Early 19th century gilt and gesso picture frame. Found at an estate sale in Columbia, Tennessee. Objects from the sale were attributed to President James K. Polk's estate. Fantastic ...
Category
19th Century American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Gesso, Wood
38-Star Antique American Flag with Unique Canton, circa 1876-1890
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This is a striking 38-star American flag. The flag dates to 1876-1890, when Colorado (represented by the large star in the center of the flag’s canton) joined the Union as the 38th s...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Muslin
Large Civil War recruitment Broadside for the 53rd New York Volunteer Infantry
Located in York County, PA
LARGE CIVIL WAR RECRUITMENT BROADSIDE FOR THE 53RD NEW YORK VOLUNTEER INFANTRY, 5th REGIMENT, "EAGLE BRIGADE," WITH AN ATTRACTIVE AND COMPELLING ...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paper
English Painted Wood Dummy Board Depicting a Royal Navy Lieutenant
Located in Southampton, NY
English painted wood dummy board depicting a royal navy lieutenant.
Inscribed 'Made in England' on the reverse.
Measures: 41" high x 21" wide x 9" deep
...
Category
Late 19th Century English Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
Very Rare West Riding Constabulary Cast Iron Wall Plaque
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
Very rare west riding constabulary cast iron wall plaque
This branch of the British police force was established in 1825, Yorkshire was divided into ...
Category
1890s British Colonial Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Iron
"Rally Freemen!..." Civil War Recruitment Broadside
Located in York County, PA
"RALLY FREEMEN! …COME ONE! COME ALL! AND SHOW YOUR LOVE FOR THE BEST COUNTRY ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH." A CIVIL WAR RECRUITMENT BROADSIDE FOR THE...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paper
Folk Art French Revolution Clock, Early 19th Century
Located in Doylestown, PA
A French folk-art figural mantel clock in carved wood and composite commemorating a fighting unit “Les Sections du Temple” in the French Revolution. The clock depicts a single figure “sans culots” with a walking stick flanked on one side by a drum and on the other by a black mortar...
Category
Early 19th Century French French Provincial Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
Large Early Folk Art Lincoln
Located in Peekskill, NY
The wood carving on this life-size Lincoln is amazing with a beautiful patina. It came out of a good Connecticut Folk Art collection. The body is primitive and was made to be covered...
Category
Mid-19th Century American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
Collection of Three Cast Iron Star Victorian Daughters of the Revolution Markers
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Collection of three Daughters of the Revolution cast iron star markers. Marked GAR Thos Feushaw Post 75 Conn.
Category
1890s North American Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Iron
William IV Police Truncheon
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
A William IV policeman’s truncheon.
A great piece of social history, the baton has a slightly shaped grip handle, the lower part is painted in Red and the upper part has a blue ba...
Category
Early 19th Century Regency Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Paint
34-Star Civil War American Flag, Antique Great Star Pattern, circa 1861
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
The stars of this extremely rare, Civil War-era flag are arranged in what is sometimes called the "Great Flower" pattern, a large star made out of smaller stars -- named as such beca...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Linen
Christening of the Prince of Wales Woolwork Picture, Dated 1842
Located in Downingtown, PA
English Royal Woolwork Picture,
Titled E R/ Christening of the/Prince of Wales/Jan 25th 1842.
A rare woolwork picture in bands of white, pink, red and green centered with a black and white picture...
Category
Mid-19th Century English Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool
Carved and Painted Wooden Eagle with Shield Attributed to John Haley Bellamy
Located in Savannah, GA
In all original untouched condition including weathered paint, this wonderful Folk Art wall plaque speaks for itself. Substantial size. It looks to be made to be mounted on a ledge, ...
Category
Mid-19th Century American Federal Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wood
Sensational Early 19th Century Chapeau De Gendarme Hat Box
Located in Atlanta, GA
A sensational early 19th century French Chapeau De Gendarme - officer's hat box in leather. Such a nostalgic shape!! A great accent piece for any b...
Category
Early 19th Century French Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Leather
American Federal Period Cast Iron Eagle
Located in York County, PA
This cast iron eagle is one of the earliest sculptural forms that one will encounter in the marketplace. It is also one of the most attractive and ico...
Category
1810s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Iron
Napoleonic Folk Art Calligraphy Drawing
Located in Greenwich, CT
Unique pen and ink Folk Art drawing with calligraphy boarder depicting Napoleon triumphant in Russia (a French fantasy) with a French flag flying over a Russian palace surrounded by ...
Category
19th Century French Folk Art Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Pen, Paper, Giltwood
Patriotic Quilt Titled "Stars and Stripes" Forever
Located in Darnestown, MD
This fabulous 48 star Patriotic quilt has the embroidered title "Stars and Stripes Forever."
The stripes of the flag are created in an unusual way. Rather than using horizontal stri...
Category
1920s American Vintage Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
36 Star Antique American Parade Flag, Nevada Statehood, ca 1864-1867
Located in York County, PA
36 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG WITH CANTED STARS IN DANCING ROWS, ON A BEAUTIFUL, CORNFLOWER BLUE CANTON; CIVIL WAR ERA, NEVADA STATEHOOD, 1864-1867
36 star antique American f...
Category
1860s Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
13 Star Antique American Flag , Ca 1890-1899
Located in York County, PA
13 STARS WITH SHORT, CONICAL ARMS ON A SMALL SCALE, ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG MADE DURING THE LAST DECADE F THE 19TH CENTURY; POSSIBLY OF PHILADELPHIA ORIGIN; FORMERLY IN THE COLLECTION ...
Category
1890s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool
38 Star Antique American Parade Flag, Colorado Statehood, ca 1876-1889
Located in York County, PA
38 STARS IN AN EXTREMELY UNUSUAL CONFIGURATION THAT BEARS A CLUSTER OF 6 SMALL STARS WITHIN A LINEAL PATTERN OF LARGER STARS, 1876-1889, COLORADO STATEHOOD
38 star American national parade flag, printed on cotton. This is an extremely rare example of a lineal pattern flag with a wreath or cluster of smaller stars inserted in the center. A very small number of flags in this style are known to have survived, the colors of which are typically saturated and vibrant, like this example, in scarlet red and rich, royal blue.
The particular wreath in the center of the configuration is really more of a pentagon with a single, center star. The reason for the choice of the design and 6 smaller stars seems a curious one on the surface, but its purpose was probably nothing more than to simply augment a 36 star print block to one with 38 stars. One may observe how 4 stars, that would have comprised the center of a 6 x 6 pattern, could have simply been removed and 6 smaller stars inserted in their place, in an artful fashion.
At least two other similar 38-star patterns are known that incorporate 4 small stars intermingled between rows of what most certainly were two very similar 34-star flag print blocks originally. It was easier to modify these blocks rather than create brand new ones. In these particular instances, the results are rare, quirky configurations that are highly prized by collectors.
Colorado became the 38th state on August 1st, 1876. This was the year of our nation’s 100-year anniversary of independence. Per the Third Flag Act of 1818, stars were not officially added until the 4th of July following a state's addition. For this reason, 37 was the official star count for the American flag in 1876. Flag-making was a competitive venture, however, and few flag-makers would have been continuing to produce 37 star flags when their competitors were making 38’s. It is for this reason that 38 and 13 stars (to represent the original 13 colonies) are more often seen at the Centennial International Exposition, the six-month long World’s Fair held in Philadelphia in honor of the event. Some flag-makers would have been adding a star for the 38th state even before it entered the Union, in the early part of 1876 or even prior. In fact, many makers of parade flags were actually producing 39 star flags, in hopeful anticipation of the addition of two more Western Territories instead of one. But the 39th state would not join the Union for another 13 years, when the Dakota Territory entered as two states on the same day. The 38 star flag became official on July 4th, 1877 and was generally used until the addition of the Dakotas in 1889.
Provenance: Jeff R. Bridgman Antiques to the late collector Jim Ring...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
38 Star Parade Flag with Stars in a Medallion Configuration, ca 1876-1889
Located in York County, PA
38 STARS IN A MEDALLION CONFIGURATION WITH 2 OUTLIERS, ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH VIBRANT COLORATION, REFLECTS COLORADO STATEHOOD, 1876-1889, ILLUSTRATED IN “THE STARS & STRIPES: FABRIC OF THE AMERICAN SPIRIT” by RICHARD PIERCE, 2005
38 star American parade flag, printed on coarse, glazed cotton. The stars are arranged in a triple-wreath form of the medallion configuration, with a single center star and two stars flanking outside the basic pattern, toward the fly end. Most circular medallion patterns of this sort exhibit four flanking stars beyond the consecutive wreaths, one in each corner. The inclusion of only two was intentional, allowing for the easy addition of two more stars. Flag-makers knew that more Western Territories were soon to be added and eagerly anticipated their arrival. Use of fewer than four outliers was popular in 38 star parade flags, but is rarely encountered in other star counts.
Note how the vibrant, chromatic luster of the orange stripes provides striking contrast with the blue canton, and how this contributes to the flag's beautiful presentation. Many parade flags in this star count have red stripes that lean heavily toward orange. This was common across printed flags produced between the 1850's and the 38 star period, phasing out in the last decade of the 19th century.
Colorado became the 38th state on August 1st, 1876. This was the year of our nation’s 100-year anniversary of independence. Per the Third Flag Act of 1818, stars were not officially added until the 4th of July following a state's addition. For this reason, 37 was the official star count for the American flag in 1876. Flag-making was a competitive venture, however, and few flag-makers would have been continuing to produce 37 star flags when their competitors were making 38’s. It is for this reason that 38 and 13 stars (to represent the original 13 colonies) are more often seen at the Centennial International Exposition, the six-month long World’s Fair held in Philadelphia in honor of the event.
Some flag-makers would have been adding a star for the 38th state even before it entered the Union, in the early part of 1876 or even prior. In fact, many makers of parade flags were actually producing 39 star flags, in hopeful anticipation of the addition of two more Western Territories instead of one. But the 39th state would not join the Union for another 13 years, when the Dakota Territory entered as two states on the same day. The 38 star flag generally fell from use at that time, though it technically remained official until July 3rd, 1890.
President Ulysses S. Grant was in office when the first 38 star flags would have appeared. The list of presidents serving during the period when the 38 star flag was actually official, include Rutherford B. Hayes, James Garfield...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
34 Star Antique American Flag with Hourglass Medallion Stars, ca 1861-1863
Located in York County, PA
EXTRAORDINARY 34 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH AN ACCORDION OR HOURGLASS MEDALLION CONFIGURATION THAT SURROUNDS A PENTAGON OF STARS IN THE CENTER; MADE OF FINE SILK AND ENTIRELY HAND-SEWN; MADE DURING THE OPENING YEARS OF THE CIVIL WAR (1861-63), IN A TINY SIZE AMONG ITS COUNTERPARTS OF THE PERIOD; REFLECTS THE ADDITION OF KANSAS AS THE 34TH STATE
34 star flag of the Civil War period with an array of rare, beautiful, and otherwise desirable features. Extremely small among flags of this period with pieced and sewn construction, the flag displays a star pattern that is not only highly unusual, but unique to this particular example. This consists of a single star in the very center, surrounded by a pentagon of stars, flanked by angular bracket of three stars to either side. Above and below are rows of 5 stars, followed by rows of 6 that line the top and bottom of the canton. The resulting configuration is what I have termed an “accordion medallion,” though “hourglass medallion” or “standing bow tie” would be perfectly acceptable.
When rotated 90 degrees, to view the harder-to-identify, bow tie formation, students of early star patterns may note the visual similarity between this and what I call “Starburst” or “Crosshatch” medallions. The pattern, however, conspicuously lacks the crosses of St. Andrew (a saltire) and St. George (roman cross), that would allow it to be more accurately categorized as such.
Entirely hand-sewn, the canton and stripes of the flag are made of fine silk. The hemming of this was accomplished with great skill. The top and bottom edges are selvedge. These are so similar in nature as to have come from the same maker. There is a white, silk binding along the hoist, in the form of an open sleeve, through which a length of braided hemp rope was passed, expertly looped and re-braided into itself at the top and bottom for strength.
The stars are made of white, polished cotton. These were stitched to both sides (double-appliqued). Note how the edges of the fabric were not turned under, providing evidence of the fact that the maker was not especially skilled in appliqueing. This was common, as applique work was far more difficult than producing French seams.
In the 19th century, most flags with pieced and sewn construction were 8 feet long and larger. A six-footer was considered small. Even military battle flags, carried on foot, measured 6’ x 6.5’, which translates into approximately 7’ x 7.5’ after framing, about the size of an average quilt and larger than can comfortably fit on a wall in a house with 8-foot ceilings and average width baseboard. Flags smaller than this were produced both commercially and at home, but the smaller they are, the more unusual they are. At just 26.5 x 46.5 inches, this flag is extremely small for a Civil war period flag with sewn construction.
Silk was both beautiful and lightweight, which made it elegant for military unit colors and preferable for flags meant to be carried on foot. Most outdoor use flags...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Silk
42 Star Antique American Parade Flag, Ca 1889-1890
Located in York County, PA
42 STARS ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH SCATTERED STAR POSITIONING, REFLECTS THE ADDITION OF WASHINGTON STATE, MONTANA, AND THE DAKOTAS, NEVER AN OFFICIAL STAR COUNT, circa 1889-18...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
13 Star Antique American Flag, ca 1895-1926
Located in York County, PA
13 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH A 3-2-3-2-3 CONFIGURATION OF STARS ON AN INDIGO CANTON, SQUARISH PROPORTIONS, AND A BEAUTIFUL OVERALL PRESENTATION, MADE circa 1895-1926
This 13 s...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool
33 Star Flag with Stars in a "Great Star" Pattern, Oregon State, ca 1859-1861
Located in York County, PA
33 STARS IN A "GREAT STAR" PATTER ON A BRILLIANT, ROYAL BLUE CANTON, A RARE AND EXTRAORDINARY EXAMPLE, PRE-CIVIL WAR THROUGH THE WAR'S OPENING YEAR, 1859-1861, OREGON STATEHOOD
33 s...
Category
Mid-19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Silk
44 Star Antique Parade Flag, Hourglass Formation, Wyoming Statehood ca 1890-1896
Located in York County, PA
44 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH AN HOURGLASS FORMATION ON A BRILLIANT BLUE CANTON; REFLECTS THE ERA WHEN WYOMING WAS THE MOST RECENT STATE TO JOIN THE UNION, 1890-1896
44 star Am...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
36 Star Antique Parade Flag, Vertical Position, Nevada Statehood, ca 1861-1867
Located in York County, PA
36 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG, WITH STARS THAT ALTERNATE IN THEIR VERTICAL POSITION FROM COLUMN TO COLUMN AND ROW-TO-ROW, PRINTED ON AN ESPECIALLY INTERESTING LENGTH OF COARSE...
Category
Late 19th Century American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
34 Star Antique American Parade Flag, Kansas Statehood, ca 1861-1863
Located in York County, PA
34 STARS IN A MEDALLION CONFIGURATION ON AN ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG WITH A LARGE, HALOED CENTER STAR; CIVIL WAR PERIOD, KANSAS STATEHOOD, 1861-1863
34 star American national pa...
Category
1860s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
45 Star Antique American Flag, with Staggered Rows, Utah Statehood, ca 1890-1896
Located in York County, PA
45 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG WITH STAGGERED ROWS OF STARS ON A DUSTY BLUE CANTON; REFLECTS THE PERIOD WHEN UTAH WAS THE MOST RECENT STATE TO JOIN THE UNION, 1890-1896
Utah became t...
Category
1890s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Wool
44 Star Antique American Flag, Stars in a Triple Wreath Pattern, Wyoming State
Located in York County, PA
44 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN PARADE FLAG WITH A TRIPLE WREATH FORM OF THE MEDALLION CONFIGURATION, RARE IN THIS PERIOD WITH A CIRCULAR STAR ARRANGEMENT, 1890-1896, REFLECTS THE ADDITION OF WYOMING TO THE UNION
44 star American parade flag, printed on plain weave cotton. The stars are arranged in a circular medallion configuration that consists of three consecutive wreaths of stars, with a single star in the very center and a flanking star in each corner of the blue canton, outside the primary pattern. Variations of this beautiful and desirable arrangement are seen primarily in flags made between the Civil War (1861-65) and the nation’s centennial (1876). While there remained no official star configuration until 1912, flag makers basically abandoned circular, star-shaped, and other, dynamic, non-linear designs after the 38 star era (1876-1889). Examples with greater than that star count are rarely encountered.
Note how this particular, orderly, circular arrangement, in such a large star count is somewhat reminiscent of a clear summer night sky, filled with stars. Also note that the canton is square, as opposed to rectangular, and how the proportions of the flag itself are somewhat more squarish than usual. Together these traits provide additional, visual peculiarities that impact to this great example of 19th century flag-making.
It is interesting to note that I discovered a period image of this particular variety of parade flag, in an early postcard, made to advertise the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia, which had, in 1898, been opened to the public as a museum. A photo of the front of the house shows two of these flags, affixed to staffs, propped at opposite angles in the front window. While perhaps difficult for the casual observer to identify, connoisseurs of printed flags may recognize their scale and iconic design. The postcard is hand-dated 1905.
Wyoming became the 44th state on July 10th, 1890. Even though the 44 star flag was not official until July 4th, 1891, most flag-makers would have begun to add a 44th star to their flags as soon as Wyoming declared statehood, or perhaps even before the state was actually added. Because flag-making was a competitive venture, flag-makers did not want to be producing 43 star flags...
Category
1890s American Antique Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Materials
Cotton
Antique and Vintage Political and Patriotic Memorabilia
Memorabilia from historical events hold endless value, with every piece telling a story. Antique and vintage political and patriotic memorabilia express pride and heritage and include campaign posters, banners and recruitment advertisements.
World War II posters bring history to life. They celebrate the heroes who fought for their country, as do buttons, flags and banners from this era. Beyond the initial goals of political campaign memorabilia — which served to prominently position candidates in front of voters and amplify a candidate’s platform — vintage campaign prints, posters, buttons and more are interesting relics of another time and place. And like a lot of folk art, these items are imbued with narrative and make for colorful and meaningful additions to shelves and walls.
Find a range of international patriotic items on 1stDibs — banners from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II are available, as are nesting dolls of the Russian royal family from the 1900s. Each item is a rare treasure, and historic finds like these add meaning to a space. Items promoting women’s right to vote inspire hope. Letters signed by presidents are treasured by admirers.
The range of these works on 1stDibs includes European and American campaign buttons, textiles and flags (and other works in fabric), uniforms and hats. Each piece of antique and vintage political and patriotic memorabilia is a slice of history, making for a unique gift or collector’s item.
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