39-Star American Parade Flag, Commemorating North Dakota Statehood, Circa 1889
This is a 39-star unofficial American parade flag, celebrating North Dakota statehood. The printed flag dates to 1889 and showcases a “whimsical” star pattern in the canton. The flag's canton boasts six vertical rows of white stars, arranged in a 7/6/7/6/7/6 pattern, printed on a medium blue ground. Thirteen red and white stripes, to represent the 13 original states in the Union, complete the design.
An official flag with only 39 stars was never approved by Congress. Flagmakers often gambled on how many states would be admitted each year and would produce flags with the number of stars they predicted would be approved that session. These flagmakers assumed the Dakota Territory would be the only new state admitted that year and printed a flag with just one more star than the previous flag design. Instead, Congress divided the Territory into North and South Dakota, and decided to admit those two states plus Montana, Washington, and Idaho all together in 1889. As a result, this 39-star flag is considered an “unofficial” flag design, giving the patriotic piece an interesting and unique history.
CONDITION:
Very good+ condition. 39-star printed flag. Printed on cotton. Printed red and blue colors are still very vibrant. Light toning to white cotton, with occasional surface stains, two darker stains in the middle of the last two red stripes. Previous creases, where it has been folded. Three holes along the headband, from where the flag was previously attached to stick. Flag Dimensions: 18”H x 24” W.
The flag has been mounted for stability and beautifully framed according to archival standards.
Framed Dimensions: 27 1/2"H x 33 1/2"W x 7/8" D.
Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.
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39-Star American Parade Flag, Commemorating North Dakota Statehood, Circa 1889
Colorado
1 Lake Avenue
Colorado Springs CO 80906
United States
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