Framing vintage flags

[jorgemonkey]

(EDIT: Date change on flag) We had heard rumors that my grandparents had an old flag somewhere in the house. While I was looking around the house I actually found it I found that it has 38 stars, which means it was made between 1877 -1890.

The bad news is it has been hanging on a vintage flag pole for a very long time. I have been given the flag, and I am planning on framing it. I'm not quite sure what type of glass & backing to use that will protect the flag. What do ya'll suggest?

Yes, once I start the framing process I'll post some images of the flag ;)

[adina]

take it to a custom framer. not a hobby lobby or a michaels, but an actual frame guy. i use a guy for all my stuff who is phenomenal. even if you are doing it yourself, get an expert opinion.

congrats on the nice find!

[Greg McCary]

My wife has some friends that frame on the side and have a very nice shop. They frame it all. They framed this sign for me. If you want I can get you their number and you can call them. They are very reasonable with their prices as well.
I have seen some frames with Purple Hearts and other Army decorations.

[drg]

Scott,

Indeed get a dedicated framer as Adina wisely suggests.

Also see if they can provide archival services including non-destructive cleaning and stabilization of the flag. Most flags of that age are cotton and need to have a de-acidification process done as they were made from an acid washed cotton to get them to flow and billow. The acid was 'neutralized' but the dye and age can often create new issues that need a preservationists touch.

Cotton also will attract bugs, even tiny ones and thus there are archival insecticides to keep the flag from totally deteriorating in another 20-40 years.

Local/county historical societies and museums are often a good starting point. Or a major universities library will have several archival specialist on staff.

Will look forward to seeing this flag as that is quite an unusual period to see flags from in private collections.

Best wishes!!

[jorgemonkey]

Thanks for the ideas!

It didn't occur to me to ask one of the local museums about how to do it and I'll also see if they have any recommendations of where to get it done. My grandmother is planning on covering the cost and we both feel that getting it done right is more important than cost. I've just sent out a couple emails to a few historical societies to get some ideas through them.

Sorry for the bad quality of the photo, but I wanted to get a quick pic to send to my parents before I wrapped it back up.