44-Star Silk American Flag, Celebrating Wyoming Statehood, Circa 1890-1896

Presented is a 44-star silk American flag, commemorating Wyoming statehood. The flag dates to 1890-1896. The flag has an “8-7-7-7-7-8” star configuration, with the stars whimsically printed on the dark blue canton. The design is completed with 13 alternating red and white printed stripes.  By the last quarter of the 19th century, flag designs were constantly changing, as a result of the number of states rapidly rising from 38 states in November 1889 to 44 states by July 1890. This flag was probably created in 1891 to celebrate the addition of Wyoming to the Union, during the time of the Indian Wars. Bills for Wyoming statehood were introduced in both the U.S. Senate and House in December 1889. The House passed the bill March 27, 1890. President Benjamin Harrison signed Wyoming's statehood bill, making Wyoming the 44th state. CONDITION: Near fine condition. Silk flag. Printed with 44 white stars on a dark blue canton, in 8/7/7/7/7/8 row configuration, and 13 alternating red and white st