California Republic Flag Cufflinks

$70.00

Presented are rectangular cufflinks of the historic California Republic bear flag, the symbol of the short-lived California Republic and a precursor of today’s California state flag.

The original flag was designed by William Todd, on a piece of unbleached cotton. The red star in the top corner imitated the lone star of Texas, while the grizzly bear represented their determination, as well as made a nod to the many bears seen in the territory. The word, ‘California Republic’ was placed beneath the star and bear, along with a thin red line at the bottom.

The flag was created for a group of American men living in the Mexican-controlled area of Alta California, who rebelled against Mexican rule of the area. The flag was hoisted in the plaza of Sonoma on June 14, 1846, and the area was declared an independent republic. Coinciding with the Mexican-American War, the flag flew for less than a month when it was taken down and replaced with the US flag.

The original flag, raised at Sonoma, was in the possession of the Society of California Pioneers at the time of the 1906 Great Earthquake and burned during the conflagration.

These vintage-styled cufflinks are a fun example of the artistry of early flag design. They would make a great gift for those who live in or visit California or those interested in American history.

Available in a rectangle format. Cufflink set is silver-plated. Presented in a Great Republic cufflink gift box.