Rare Monumental 1890 Antique 42 Star United States of America Flag 15'

Description

Monumental fifteen foot 42 star American flag, circa 1889-1890.

The 42-star flag is rare because only a limited number of 42-star flags were produced after Washington became a state on Nov. 11, 1889.

But it takes a more intimate knowledge of flag trivia to know just why it happened this way.

White stars are added to the blue field of the star-spangled banner on the Fourth of July after a state is admitted to the union. In the fall of 1889, several western territories became states.

Dakota was admitted, and then split into North and South Dakota, on Nov. 2, 1889, which made them state and star numbers 39 and 40. Montana was named the 41st state on Nov. 8, followed by Washington, on Nov. 11.

Only a few flag manufacturers began producing 42-star flags before the official addition of the 42nd star on July 4, 1890.

Those who tried to jump the gun by being the first to produce an up-to-date flag were surprised when Idaho was admitted to the United States on July 3, 1890, just one day before stars 39 through 42 were to be added.

Condition

Good antique condition, wear and distressing commensurate with age and use, creasing from folding.

Dimensions

120" x 180" / 10' x 15' (Length x Width)