48-Star Whipple Pennant, Circa 1912

This is a beautiful example of a printed 48-star Whipple flag pennant. In the first decade of the twentieth century, a contest to design a classical style of American heraldry was held. The flag designed by Wayne Whipple, a well-known author of popular works on American history, was chosen in 1912 from among 500 entries. Whipple's flag was approved by President Taft, widely publicized throughout the nation, and produced.

Whipple’s flag design was a wonderful and symbolic celebration of our nation’s history. At center of the canton, 13 stars were arranged in a central six-pointed "Great Star" to symbolize the 13 original states. The ring of 25 stars around the "Great Star" represents the states admitted to the Union up to the time of the First Centennial celebration in 1876. An outer ring of stars symbolizes the states admitted since the Centennial. 

In this cotton pennant, we see the classic Whipple formation of thirteen stars in a great star, surrounded by twenty-five stars in a ring. Around the circle of twenty-five stars are an additional ten stars, five on each side. The pennant design is completed with 13 alternating red and white stripes. This flag was constructed circa 1912.

CONDITION: 

In very good condition. Printed cotton pennant, with hemmed edges. Colors show a little fading, but design is still very sharp and visible. Scattered light stains along the top and small holes throughout. Hemmed edges intact, without fraying. Attached to original black wooden waver stick, originally 30", cut down to fit in new frame. Flag dimensions: 9” H x 23” W.  

Flag and stick have been artfully and archivally mounted and framed with acid-free black mats, a custom plaque, UV glass, and a custom-built wooden frame. 

Framed Dimensions: 16 3/4"H x 27 3/4"W x 1 5/8"D. 

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.