I'm almost done with the initial list of patriotic quilts that I wanted to make during this 39 days of Patriotism, but I have a few more in mind, if I have time. I'm running low on some of my favorite red fabrics so I may have to do a bit of shopping to replenish the stash!
Last week when I showed you the finds that came home with me from the antique shops, I mentioned how I had found 49 star flags and didn't know they were prevalent. After posting the blog, I went and rounded up all the vintage flags that I have that I assumed were 50 star flags and examined them.
This is the star field for a 48 star flag. It has 6 rows of 8 stars in a grid pattern. The grid pattern makes them very easy to spot.
This is a modern, 50 star flag. The stars are in alternate rows of 6 and 5. There are 5 rows of 6 (30)and four rows of 5 (20) The stars are not in a regular pattern, but appear more diagonally arranged.
And this is the field for a 49 star flag. It has 7 rows of 7 stars, but instead of being regularly placed, like the 48 star flag, they are alternated for the diagonal look of a modern flag. So at a quick glance, most people would assume that it is a 50 star flag. Hence my confusion. I think the arrangement makes it look like there are missing stars.
I did a little check on history, and when Alaska became a state on January 3, 1959, the first 49 star flag was made and flown over Independence Hall in Philadelphia on 4 July, 1959. It was only official for one year when, after the admittance of Hawaii, the 50 star flag was first flown 4 July, 1960.
There is occasional talk about Puerto Rico or another protectorate of the US becoming a 51st state. I wonder how they would arrange the stars then?
We spent a quiet weekend just hanging around the house. After our trip, that was what we both were happy doing. I spent some time in the sewing room, though, and have things to show later.
Have a great day!
JoAnne
If they do decide to add another State, I am sure you would be the perfect candidate to be on the committee - thanks for all the historic star info - I love learning new things.
ReplyDeleteAmazing how adding one star changed the look of the flag! Very interesting
ReplyDeleteHow cool that you found out you already owned one! I would guess that they are pretty rare.
ReplyDeleteMy understanding is that 49 star flags are rare. Living in a Alaska I would love to find one. Anyone who has one up here keeps it tucked away as a treasure.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting, I don't think I have ever seen the 49 star American flag. Thanks for the lesson.
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