Leather Fireman's Parade Belt

6-FOOT SHIP’S COMMISSION PENNANT WITH A 5.5” HOIST AND 13 STARS IN 2 STAGGERED ROWS, LIKELY PRODUCED FOR A PRIVATE VESSEL, circa 1892-1910 Commission pennants are the distinguishing...

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...

13 STAR RIBBON, WOVEN SILK, circa 1876-1910 13 star antique American flag ribbon, made of woven silk, of the type encountered in military, political, and fraternal badges and ribbon...

34 STAR ANTIQUE AMERICAN FLAG OF THE CIVIL WAR PERIOD (1861-63), IN A TINY SCALE AMONG PIECED-AND-SEWN FLAGS OF THE PERIOD, WITH A TRIPLE-WREATH CONFIGURATION, AN ELONGATED FORMAT, AND ENTIRELY HAND-SEWN; FOUND WITH A LETTER FROM JOHN W. RUDE OF THE 2ND KENTUCKY VETERAN VOLUNTEER CAVALRY (UNION): 34 star flag of the Civil War period with a variety of extremely desirable features, handed down with a letter written by John W. Rude on November 8th, 1864, while encamped with the Army’s 1st Brigade, 3rd Division, as a member of the 2nd Regiment of Veteran Volunteer Cavalry. Tiny in scale among pieced and sewn examples, the flag displays a star pattern that consists of a three consecutive wreaths, with a single star in the very center. Because it lacks a single star in each corner, outside the basic pattern—usually present in flags of this design made during the mid-late 19th century—this is something I classify as a “snowball medallion.” Entirely hand-sewn throughout, note the square format of the blue canton, with its beautiful, circular star arrangement, and how interesting this combination is when paired with the elongated format of the flag itself. The stars are double-appliqued, meaning that they are applied to both sides. These are fat in shape and inconsistent in size. Note how the lowest star in the outermost ring actually dips into the white stripe below. Made of plain weave cotton, there is a narrow binding along the hoist, red in color, with three sets of cotton ties. Those at the top and bottom are made of fine, braided hemp or hemp and cotton cord, stitched into place, while the one in the center, looped around the binding and tied, is made of lightweight, twisted, cotton thread. Note how the 5th, 6th, and 7th red stripes are pieced from two lengths of cotton fabric, which reflects that the maker was being conscious of conserving available fabric. 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 exist, but the smaller they get, the more unusual they are. At just 1.5’ x 3’, this is about as small as one will ever encounter in a sewn flag of the Civil War era. The flag appears to have likely been hand-carried. I expect that it probably saw military use of some sort as a camp flag...

Step into the world of vintage elegance with this exquisite set of 2 belts from the USSR, crafted with distinctive styles that reflect the fashion essence of the 1970s. Each belt carries its unique charm and allure, adding a touch of retro allure to your wardrobe. The first belt, in a classic brown color, is designed for a child and made from faux leather. Adorned with a buckle featuring the image of the star, the iconic symbol of the USSR, this belt exudes a sense of historical significance. Measuring approximately 55cm in length and 2.5cm in width, this belt offers a perfect fit for a child's waist, combining style with practicality. In original good condition, the brown belt has been preserved impeccably, showcasing its enduring quality. The second belt, in navy blue and red shades and crafted from fabric, adds a pop of color to your outfit. With its longer length, measuring around 119cm, and a width of 3cm, this belt offers versatility in styling, allowing you to experiment with various waist cinching techniques. Despite some signs of age, this belt still retains its charm and uniqueness, making it a distinctive accessory that embraces the nostalgia of the era. Perfect for collectors of vintage fashion, lovers of classic elegance, or anyone seeking unique accessories, this set of 2 belts from the 1970s USSR is a delightful find. Embrace the opportunity to own a piece of history, and let the brown and navy blue belts make a bold fashion statement. Add this set of vintage belts to your collection and let their timeless elegance elevate your style. Celebrate the allure of authentic vintage fashion...

C G Italian leather belt with sterling silver buckle, end tip and belt loop. Size: 28. Very good condition. Dimensions: .25" depth x 35" W x 1.5" tall.

Homemade weights, canvas straps, rubber belt and brass buckle. Dimensions: 48" L.

Early 20th century English 6-brass leather horse strap. Thick, shaped black leather. Brasses of a bull, plowman, oak leaves & acorn, horse's bust in bridle, wheat sheaf & tools, and ...