Flags that are used to distinguish troops in the field from the enemy are called "Battle Flags", and go back to Roman times. In early battles of the civil war confederate troops used the 1st National Flag, but this caused confusion as it looked similar to the Union Stars and Stripes. The Generals choose a red flag with a blue cross and white stars, selecting a square design for military use. In November 1861 the first battle flags were issued to regiments. This flag is referred to as the "Southern Cross". It had 12 total stars, 11 stars for the states currently in the CSA and one for Missouri, which had seceded, but was not yet admitted to the Confederacy. The first flags were made of silk, but these did not last very long in the harsh weather. The next batch were made of heavy English wool bunting. The design was changed to 13 stars for the 13 states. Different sizes of the flags were used to help commanders to tell which unit was where. The Battle Flag was always in front of the regiment, so soldiers knew where they should to be. Variants of the flag were used by different regiments. INFANTRY FLAG: 48 inches square ARTILLERY FLAG: 36 inches sqaure CAVALRY FLAG: 30 inches square Flags were carried into the field by COLOR BEARERS, and surrounded by a COLOR GUARD. The man carrying the flag could not use a weapon to defend the flag or himself, so an armed guard was provided to defend the flag and barrier from attack or capture by the enemy. It was considered a great honor to be appointed to a position of such great responsibility. Being in the COLOR GUARD was also a great honor and responsibility. The COLOR bearer had to hold the flag up straight even in a strong wind. 3 feet x 3 feet, Printed Polyester, Confederate Battle Flag. This design was carried by most of the Confederate Armies since 1861. Excellent for use in Parades and Ceremonies Order online using our Secure Yahoo Shopping Cart,or Call in your order at 1-800-721-1071..Or Order by mail by sending a money order to: 1ABC Confederate Store 1280 S. River Oaks Blackshear,Ga. 31516 |
