Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Flag |
Catalog Number |
1976.110.37a |
Maker |
Wilkins, Hugh |
Date |
1861 |
Material(s) |
Silk |
Dimensions |
H-20 W-21 inches |
Description |
This is what remains of the regimental flag of the 8th Kentucky Volunteer Cavalry (USA). There are several large fragments with an eagle design in the center. Part of the wings, one star and the two talons are visible. One talon is holding an olive branch; the other arrows. There is a makers mark in the lower left (as you look at it). There is a part of the ribbon with "E PLURIBUS" on it. There is a ribbon with the unit designation. |
Notes |
Some of our Civil War era flags are in terrible shape. A big reason for this is how they were originally made. Harsh dyes used to color fabrics (especially silk) resulted in the material breaking apart and shattering. Painted areas typically remain more intact but paint does not allow free movement of the fabric and thus contributes to the fracturing of adjacent areas. Ironically wool and cotton flags, which were less expensive to produce, are far more stable than silk flags. These flags in our collection remain largely intact and in far better condition than their silk counterparts. Many of the Civil War era flags in our collection cannot be physically displayed without causing further damage. KHS stores flags flat in a stable environment. Our goal is to slow the deterioration as much as possible. |
Collection |
Kentucky Military History Museum Collection |
Event |
American Civil War |
People |
Wilkins, Hugh |
Subjects |
Flags Military flags Civil wars |
Search Terms |
American Civil War Civil War Civil War flags Civil Wars Flag remnants |
Physical Holder |
Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |