Relics of the American West: 1850-1920
Lot 2113:
Description
An exceptional, large-scale late 19th-century American 38-star national ensign, celebrating the admission of Colorado as the “Centennial State.” Officially adopted on July 4, 1877, and remaining the standard until 1890, this flag dates to a vibrant era of Western expansion and post-Reconstruction patriotism. Measuring an impressive 134″ x 84″ (approx. 7′ x 11′), this institutional-sized flag features premium period construction and a compelling physical history that hints at decades of proud public display. Construction & Materials: Field & Canton: Constructed from a lightweight, open-weave wool bunting typical of high-quality maritime or municipal flags of the Gilded Age. The deep indigo blue canton and alternating red and cream-white stripes retain excellent color depth with an authentic, rich patina. The Stars: The 38 stars are individually appliquéd (sewn-on) rather than printed, a hallmark of superior period manufacturing. They are arranged in the standard commercial 6-7-6-6-7-6 offset row configuration and have aged uniformly to an attractive amber-cream tone. The Hoist (Header): Features a robust, heavy canvas/linen header fitted with a prominent brass grommet showing natural oxidation and a light verdigris patina. The hoist is hand-lettered or stenciled with the period provenance ink inscription: “BALDWIN”—suggesting use by a specific municipality, vessel, or Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) veterans’ post. Historical Display Modifications: Adding significant “folk art” and operational charm, the flag’s upper edge features a series of vintage metal spring clips and fastener loops spaced roughly every 8 to 9 inches. This indicates the flag was later adapted for semi-permanent indoor suspension—likely hung from a ceiling or pinned flat against a grand hall wall for veterans’ encampments, political conventions, or civic gatherings. Condition Report: Remarkably well-preserved for a textile of this scale and age. The center field and fly end are unusually intact, escaping the catastrophic wind-fraying typical of outdoor-flown ensigns. Honest wear includes light material loss to the tips of the outer red stripes and minor tattering/loss on the lowest red stripe near the hoist. The fabric exhibits surface soot and an honest layer of historic atmospheric patina consistent with decades of display in buildings heated by wood or coal; the flag remains structurally sound and supple. Please see photos for condition.
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