34-Star American Flag, Commemorating Kansas Statehood, 1861

Offered is a large and spectacular 34-star American flag, produced during the Civil War. This flag features 34 single applique white cotton stars, hand-sewn on a blue wool bunting canton. The stars are arranged in whimsical rows of 7/7/7/6/7 stars.  The verso of the flag reveals “peek a boo” stars. The design is completed with alternating, hand-sewn red and white stripes made of wool bunting. The flag features a white canvas header, with four small whip-sewn grommets. 

This 34-star flag celebrates Kansas statehood and dates to circa 1861. Kansas was admitted to the Union as the 34th state on January 29th, 1861, which was about a month after states began to secede from the Union and about two-and-a-half months before the American Civil War officially began. The 34 star flag was made official on July 4th of that year and remained the official flag until July 4th, 1863, when the 35-star flag was made official for the admission of West Virginia to the Union. 

Even with the secession of states during the American Civil War, the American flag was not officially changed to show a loss of stars. Abraham Lincoln encouraged Americans not to produce flags with fewer stars after states seceded, as he saw great value in remaining an unified body under one flag. The 34-star flag was often referred to as “Lincoln’s flag,” for Lincoln’s stubborn refusal to allow the elimination of any stars during the Civil War. 

CONDITION:

Very good condition, considering age and size. Large American flag, with 34 hand-sewn single applique cotton stars. Stars arranged in rows of 7-7-7-6-7 on a wool bunting canton.  The verso reveals 'peek a boo' stars. Alternating hand-sewn wool bunting stripes. Canvas header with four small whip-sewn grommets. The blue and red colors are lightly faded, but consistent. Surface dirt and stains, more noticeable on white stripes and stars, at top of hoist, and along fly end. Small holes throughout, several splits along the fabric. Rust stains around the grommets. Flag measures 31” H x 51” W. 

The flag has been mounted, folded due to size, and framed on linen with UV Plexiglas and a custom built wooden frame. Mount and framing to archival standards. 

Framed Dimensions: 53" H x 84 1/2" W x 3 1/2" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.