38-Star American Parade Flag, Flown at a Reception for President Grant, 1880

This is a beautifully colored 38-star American parade flag, flown at a public reception for Ulysses S. Grant in October of 1880. This printed flag features a rare, triple medallion star pattern, with three rings of stars, a central star, and two outliers at the top right and bottom right of the canton. The flag is printed on glazed cotton and has a period inscription, reading “Gen. Grant Reception Hartford Oct 16th 1880” in black ink on the last white stripe. 

This parade flag boasts an interesting history, as it was flown during a public reception for former President Ulysses S. Grant. During a trip from Boston to New York in October 1880, Grant stopped in Hartford, Connecticut for a public reception. He was met by a large crowd of admirers lining the streets along the route from the train station to Bushnell Park, where the public reception was held. Among the dignitaries welcoming General Grant was Mark Twain, who spoke highly of Grant’s leadership abilities, describing him as a great soldier, honored statesman, and unselfish citizen. Grant and his party were escorted through the city by a procession of more than 2,000 veterans and soldiers and thousands of members of Republican campaign clubs from Hartford and the surrounding Connecticut towns. After dinner at the home of General William Bulkeley, the celebration continued with a torchlight parade and fireworks. Later that evening, Grant boarded a train for New York. 

Grant’s public reception in Hartford was one of several trips he made in the final weeks of the 1880 presidential campaign. At rallies and receptions throughout New England, Grant offered his voice and support to the Garfield-Arthur Republican ticket. James A. Garfield won a narrow victory over Major General Winfield S. Hancock. This flag is a remaining relic of that final campaign push to win the presidency and has been exhibited at several museums. 

CONDITION:

Very good condition, considering age and past use. Glazed cotton flag, printed with 38 stars configured in a triple medallion pattern with one central star, flanked by stars in upper right and lower right corners. Toning and soiling throughout, with wear to edges. Color is still rich and vibrant. Period inscription in ink: “Gen. Grant Reception Hartford Oct 16th 1880” on last white stripe. Inscription has bled but is still legible. Flag Dimensions: 11 1/2 x 17 1/4 in.

Archivally mounted and framed in a custom-built black and gold wooden frame with UV glass and linen mats. Framed Dimensions: 19 1/2"H x 24"W x 1 1/4"D. 

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.