45-Star U.S. Navy Ensign with PAT'D 1884 Grommets

🇺🇸 Textbook Navy flag with rare dual-attachment system.
Bridgman-documented “PAT’D 1884” grommets, handwritten name, and large 45-star layout.

This 6 × 10 ft U.S. ensign dates from between 1896 and 1908, featuring 45 stars and classic Navy construction. It uses both grommets and linen ties for attachment — a transitional feature found on naval flags produced at the New York Navy Yard. The brass grommets are stamped with the U.S. patent date AUG 28, 1884.

The hoist bears the name “L. W. Manchester,” likely referring to Lewis W. Manchester of Syracuse, NY — a veteran or civil employee with probable ties to naval operations. The materials, stitching, and markings all point to Navy-issued provenance, matching Bridgman-documented flags with identical features.

📄 Documentation & Analysis

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🏷️ Tags

U.S. flags, Navy Yard, 19th century, Grommets, Jeff Bridgman

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