Before there was an official star configuration established for the flag in 1912, flag makers took all manner of liberties, producing a great variety of unusual designs, of which this flag is one example.
Thirteen-star flags have been used throughout our nation’s history for a variety of purposes. During the Civil War, Union supporters often made 13-star flags to commemorate the American Revolution and draw a parallel between the struggle for liberty with the British and the conflict with the South. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the U.S. Navy displayed 13-star flags on small boats because they could be more easily recognized at a distance than flags with larger star counts. Although that practice largely ended with a presidential decree in 1916, even today some private ships continue to display ensigns with a wreath of 13 stars surrounding an anchor. In the 20th century, 13-star flags continued to be displayed at special events and commemorative celebrations, such as state and national centennials.
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All flag images are used courtesy of Jeff R. Bridgman American Antiques, LLC, and remain © Jeff R. Bridgman American Antiques, LLC.
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