13 Star American Naval Flag

 

 

13 STAR AMERICAN NAVAL BOAT FLAG, 1890-1920 ca.
Flag size 2’x 3’
Frame: 29 1/2" x 42 3/4"

Antique American small-scale boat flag: this striking flag is made of wool, seamed together by lock stitching, the 13 cotton stars are double appliqued- which means the stars were sewn onto both sides of the canton. Double sided flags made of wool were mainly intended for naval use or for significant ceremonial events rather than private usage. The hoist is made of cotton and contains 2 brass grommets.
The 3-2-3-2-3-star pattern has a star positioned in the center, stars in a diamond pattern about that, and a star sewn in each corner of the canton. This star pattern is most often referred to as a Francis Hopkinson pattern credited to a New Jersey Senator and signer of the Declaration of Independence who played a significant part in designing the original American National Flag.

On June 14, 1777, the US Continental Congress adopted a resolution that stated: Resolved, the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes and alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation.” As new states were added to the union a star was added to the flag for each new addition, however, the thirteen-star count remains the official National flag of the United States.

Thirteen-star flags have flown on masts of U.S. Navy boats and private vessels throughout much of the latter 19th and early 20th Centuries. It continues to be one of the most desirable American flags, from the beginner flag collector to seasoned aficionados, and is often used to celebrate in patriotic events and ceremonies.
Historic flags such as this one, adorn walls in fine homes and offices around the world.

Description/condition
The flag is made of wool and in overall excellent condition, albeit a few areas of minor mothing. It presents beautifully in vibrant red, white and blue colors; the stripes, canton and hoist are pieced together by lock stitching; 13 cotton/flax stars double appliquéd on the wool canton by zigzag stitching in a 3-2-3-2-3 pattern. The hoist is made of cotton, stamped 2 x 3, and contains 2 metal grommets.
Microscopy reveals cotton/flax blend on stars and sewing thread, a commonly used blend in the 19th century. The irregular thickness of the warp and weft seen in microscopy indicates a primitive weave typical of the late 1800’s.

Framing process: pressure mounted; flag placed atop of pre-washed 100% cotton material over cotton batting on a mounting board.

Frame: is wood with an intricate molding design, face 1 ½” wide;  dark mahogany stain finish and an antique gold-stained inner trim.

 

Email: jtfrancis.com@gmail.com

Item: 13-naval-25