Early Commemorative Ensign Flag

Canadas official flag was the union jack until the 1920s. However, the nation had adopted an ensign in 1867 with the provincial shields formed into one shield on the red field with the jack in the corner that constituted the nation symbolically. Every time provinces were added the flag changed with the addition of their crests. The first flag had 4 provinces, then 7, 9 and finally a national shield on its own.

The flags were flown at all institutions and over the parliament buildings, in the field by soldiers and on ships. They were made locally in the thousands in smaller scale for citizens to buy and fly at ceremonies and parades. Offered here is just such a flag. I think this one is about half scale to a full size flag, and was likely flown in front of a home, club, institution or business. I has its original staff and is made of a heavy canvas like cloth with the images printed onto the surface both sides. It has 7 provinces and can be dated as early as the 1870s. It has some tears and soiling, but would make a great back drop to a collection based around the 1885 campaign.

Shipping maybe tricky, with the staff. Its about 4'.

Code: 52305