36-Star Printed American Flag, Circa 1864-67

This is an antique 36-star American flag, as striking as it is scarce. The flag has a cotton construction, with a blue canton printed with 36 white stars. The stars are arranged in a row pattern of 6/6/6/6/6/6. Thirteen printed red and white stripes complete the design. 36 stars celebrate the addition of Nevada to the Union and the 36-star flag officially flew from July 4, 1865 to July 3, 1867, under President Andrew Johnson.

Flags of the American Civil War period are among the most sought after of all American flags. Prior to the Civil War, Americans rarely displayed the flag for personal use. The events of the Civil War, starting even prior to the commencement of the war with the introduction of Kansas into the Union as the 34th state and the election of President Abraham Lincoln in 1861, marked a turning point in both the surge of patriotism and the production and display of the American flag.

Although Nevada became a state while the Civil War was in progress, on October 31st, 1864, Congress did not officially add its star to the flag until July 4, 1865, several months after the war was over. So while many consider 36-star flags “Reconstruction flags” given their official fly time, the actual period of the 36-star flag spans almost six months into the end of the Civil War and the final surrender at Appomattox Court House. In fact, 36-star flags were officially issued to Army regiments that required new flags during those last six months of fighting. 36-star flags were also used in jubilant parades nationwide to celebrate the end of the Civil War, as well as in more solemn ceremonies mourning the death of President Lincoln and fallen soldiers.

This is a truly spectacular piece of Americana, a significant addition to any serious Civil War or collection.

CONDITION:

The flag is stable and in good condition, considering its age and use. The cotton flag has 36 printed stars on a blue canton. The stars are arranged in 6/6/6/6/6/6 horizontal rows. The design is completed with 13 alternating red and white printed stripes. There is machine stitching on the hoist. 

The blue printed color has faded, although the red color remains strong. Fraying to fly end. One older repair to the 5th white stripe. Minor damp stains throughout, with toning to white cotton. Flag Dimensions: 38.5" x 32.5"

Flag has been mounted in an archival, custom-built black and gold wooden frame with UV Plexiglas and a custom plaque. Framed Dimensions: 42"H x 48"W x 2 1/2" D