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Spanish-American War-era 45-star United States flag by an unknown maker from circa 1896-1908, approximately 88˝ x 57˝, which is atypically small for the period. Machine-sewn and made of wool bunting, with 45 double-appliqued cotton stars in the traditional 8-7-8-7-8-7 pattern, with metal grommets on the header, which is marked “5x8.” In very good condition overall, with hand-sewn repair patches, faded, yellowed, with some moth holes.
The 45-star flag of the United States was officially adopted on July 4, 1896, following the admission of Utah as the 45th state on January 4, 1896. This period marked a time of significant growth and change for the United States, as it continued to expand westward and incorporate new territories into the Union. The 45-star flag flew for twelve years, a period that saw the United States further cement its place as a burgeoning world power. During its time, it flew under three presidents: Grover Cleveland, William McKinley, and Theodore Roosevelt. It was under this flag that the country navigated the complexities of the Spanish-American War, which resulted in the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. The 45-star flag was also present during the early 20th century, a time of rapid industrialization and social change within the United States. It was eventually replaced by the 46-star flag in 1908, following the admission of Oklahoma as the 46th state.
