GREGG'S 1st SC VOLUNTEERS (6 MONTH)

History

Clearly a flag of the 1st Regiment, this flag has been misidentified over the years. Museum records show that it was flying over Fort Moultrie during the April 1861 bombardment of Sumter and was perforated with four shots. However, this is incorrect. According to research by Howard Madaus given to the museum some years ago, the flag was produced by Hayden & Whilden Jewelers in Charleston and made by “Mrs. Schuckman.” It was presented in November 1861 to Gregg’s 1st SCV.

Description/Condition

Cream and green-colored silk flag of the 1st Regiment South Carolina Volunteers. Green fringe along outer 3 edges. Obverse - Embroidered moon and palmetto tree on a cream/white background with gold lettering: "1st Reg't S.C.V." Reverse - Embroidered laurel and oak wreath with gold lettering in the center on a green silk background: “Pro Patria” (“For the Homeland”) and “Comp’y” over date “1861”.  Height: 41"  Width: 48"

FABRIC

Discoloration/Stains: Obverse - Darkening of white fabric; brown stains at top corners. Reverse - Darkening towards the fly edge; stains throughout.

Surface Grime: Moderately soiled throughout.

Accretions: Reverse - two white spots on surface to the right of the word "Comp'y."

Embrittlement: Silk is very dry, brittle, prone to splitting and breaking off.

Creases: Numerous creases throughout, from being rolled.

Loss of warp/weft: Obverse - Top left corner, along fly edge, and around the palmetto tree. Reverse - Silk has split center bottom and right of wreath.

Weak Seams: Throughout.

Comments: Storing flat would be preferable as silk is very brittle and prone to creasing or breaking if folded or rolled. Flag is a good candidate for conservation.

FABRIC DECORATION

Description: Embroidery/Attachments - fringe.

Discoloration/Stains: Moderately soiled throughout.

Weak Seams: Throughout.