Major General Philip H. Sheridan's Silk Personal Civil War, C.1864-65, Battle Flag Accompanied by the Silk National Colors.... (Total: 2 Items)

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Major General Philip H. Sheridan's Silk Personal Civil War, C.1864-65, Battle Flag Accompanied by the Silk National Colors. These flags, along with the bunting flag listed elsewhere in this catalog, which is accompanied by a Fonda Thomsen letter of authenticity, were retained since the Civil War in the Sheridan family and are offered here for the first time. The battle flag is constructed entirely of silk, 34" on the hoist and 58" on the fly. There is a 1½" silk hoist with a ¼" rope sewn in for reinforcement. Two 1½" X 16" blue silk ties are attached at top and bottom with a blue silk loop in the center. The pattern and construction of the flag are nearly identical to the wool bunting version. The top and bottom section with appliquéd five pointed star. The flag is 90% intact. The 10% loss occurring primarily in the center at at the ends of the fly. There are also some breaks in the upper left quadrant. The white silk has darkened considerably and there are some splattered stains. Still most impressive and a prime candidate for full restoration. The silk national colors are 46" on the hoist and 62" on the fly. The 5/8" pink silk hoist is reinforced with a 1/8" roped stitched inside. There are remains of blue silk ties at the top, bottom and center. The 2½" five pointed stars are applied with gilt paint. As can be seen in the photograph the flag exhibits considerable deterioration and substantial loss, most notably in the blue field. Again, however, fully restorable. An important set of silk Civil War standards that served the Union's greatest cavalry commander through his most illustrious campaigns in 1864 and 1865.