13 Star American Nation Boat Flag

 

13 Star American National Boat Flag
Circa 1895-1920’s
 
Flag Size:    (HXL) 27”x33”(top fly)                   Frame Size (HXL):  34 ¼”x 41 ¼”
                                27x 35”(bottom fly)
                        (H) 28”        (end fly)

Extraordinary 13 Star American National Boat Flag designed in a nearly square proportion compared to the more common examples of this size flag made at that time.

One of the many interesting aspects of this boat flag is how the bottom of the fly flares out in dramatic style. As far as the flag’s proportions -it is open for interpretation, we used microscopy to view the threads and as far as we could determine the flag maintained the same threads and machine stitching throughout the flag. The 27” long hoist is original as is the small wool tag stamped 2 x 3 in black ink attached to the hoist by the same machine stitching.  At first glance one may not immediately take notice that the red stripe in the center of the flag is narrower than the rest, simply put it adds one more intriguing facet about this flag and we’re not quite finished pointing out the uncommon qualities of this flag, we have to bring attention to the canton which is two-pieced, quite unusual for this size flag.

The 13 double appliqued cotton stars are arranged in a lineal configuration in rows containing 3-2-3-2-3, which can be seen as a diamond of stars with a star sewn in the center, stars in a diamond pattern about that and a star sewn in each corner of the canton. The flag’s 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. Many of the original designs remain unaccounted for, however one of the better known designs attributed to the Hopkinson design is similar to this flag apart from having 5 pointed stars instead of 6 as the Hopkinson design.

Thirteen star flags remain official national flags of the United States. It has continued throughout time to be one of the most desirable star counts for the beginner flag collector to the seasoned aficionado, from the US Navy to private vessels alike and framed flags such as this adorn homes and offices around the country. This is a true historic relic that compliments contemporary settings as well as the traditional.

Condition is good; flag is made of wool, the colors are bold, hoist is wool with two metal grommets and it has a wool label machine stitched- original stamp worn out lettering 2 x 3 feet, 13 double-appliqued stars; some mothing throughout;
Mounting:flag is pressure mounted to a pre-washed cotton (black) fabric laid over cotton batting atop of an acid-free foam backing; frame is 3” wide in a gorgeous mat gloss gold/silver color.

Email: jtfrancis.com@gmail.com

Item: 13-718-133