The 38th state, Colorado, joined the Union on August 1, 1876. This was just 28 days after the nation’s centennial celebration, which had taken place on July 4th in Philadelphia. Although the official star count was still 37 in 1876, flag-making was a competitive, commercial venture, and no one wanted to be making 37-star flags when others were already making flags with 38. For this reason, 38 and 13 are the two most common star counts on the many flags that were produced during the period of the centennial.
This 38-star parade flag is set in a triple-wreath medallion configuration and printed on glazed cotton. Note that there are only two flanking stars in the corners, rather than the traditional four. This was done intentionally to leave room for the easy addition of two more stars, since it was known that more western territories were soon to join the Union.
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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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