[FLAGS]. 5-star American flag found inside Theological Dictionary, possibly a "bible flag."

3 x 4 in. hand-painted flag, possibly cotton, comprised of a 5 silver stars on a blue canton with 13 red and white stripes. The name "Macallister" is stenciled on the flag, which is affixed to a 6 in. long thin pole.

The small flag is accompanied by the book in which it was originally found: BUCK, Charles. A Theological Dictionary, Containing Definitions Of All Religious Terms; A Comprehensive View Of Every Article In The System Of Divinity; An Impartial Account Of All The Principal Denominations Which Have Subsisted In The Religious World...Philadelphia: William W. Woodward, 1825. Owner's name inscribed on front pastedown.

Although the origin of this flag is unknown, the small size suggests that it was used as a "bible flag," possibly during the Civil War. Often made for a soldier by a mother, wife, sister or sweetheart, these smaller flags were carried by soldiers in pocket bibles as a reminder of loved ones at home. If indeed a war-date "bible flag," the 5-star flag may have been made in celebration of Georgia's secession, the fifth state to do so, in January 1861. However, this cannot be confirmed.

This lot is located in Cincinnati.

Some soiling to flag.

Significant wear to book. Front cover is present, but detached; lacks the back cover; significant loss and wear to spine.

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Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Katie Horstman

VP, Head of Department, American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography

[email protected]513.666.4958

Ms. Horstman has spent over a decade specializing in historic photography and Americana at auction. During her tenure, she has overseen several notable single owner auctions, including property from the inventory of celebrated Americana and antique arms expert Norm Flayderman. During her time with the firm, she has maintained an active membership in the Daguerreian Society. Ms. Horstman holds an MA in Art History from the University of Cincinnati and a BA in Art History from The Ohio State University.

American Historical Ephemera and Photography

[FLAGS]. 5-star American flag found inside Theological Dictionary, possibly a "bible flag."

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