Framed 35 star parade flag, printed on linen or cotton, Medallion or wreath pattern configuration with central great star surrounded by 18 stars in a circle and four stars in each corner (total 16 corner stars). Floated on a black mat in a later ebonized and giltwood frame. Provenance: Estate of A. Welling LaGrone Jr., Nashville, Tenn. The Flag Act of 1818, still in effect, codified into law the addition of stars to the flag of the United States after the admission of a new state into the Union. It stated that on the July 4th after the state was officially admitted, the star representing that state would be placed on the flag. West Virginia, as part of the state of Virginia, seceded from the Union in April 1861. However, this region was mostly Unionists and in 1863 they “seceded” from Virginia forming the new state of West Virginia. It was officially admitted to the Union on June 20, 1863. On July 4, 1863, the star for the state was added to the U.S. flag bringing the total number of stars to thirty five. This flag measures 16 inches on the hoist by 30 ½ inches on the fly; the frame measures 22 inches by 36 inches. – Catalog entry by Greg Biggs. Condition: Some staining and scattered small losses. Not examined out of frame.