Sizes 2×3 thru 4×6 Second National Sewn Cotton Confederate Flags

History of the Second National Flag of the Confederacy

The second national flag of the Confederacy or “Stainless Banner” was adopted May 1, 1863, and served until March 4, 1865. During the quest for a second Confederate national flag, there were many different designs proposed, nearly all making use of the battle flag, which by 1863 had become very well-known and popular among those in the Confederate states. The new design was adopted by the Confederate Congress and described as “the Stainless Banner” because of the pure white field which took up a large part of the flag’s design. The Confederate Congress debated whether the white field should have a blue stripe and whether it should be bordered in red but ultimately decided upon the stainless design.

Initially, the reaction to the second national flag was favorable, but eventually became criticized for being “too white”. Others observed that it was essentially a battle flag upon a white flag of surrender and might send the wrong message. Military personnel also voiced concerns about the flag being too white, for various reasons, such as the danger of being mistaken for a flag of surrender, particularly on naval ships, and that it was too easily soiled. Despite complaints, the second national flag was also applauded by some for its design, referring to the saltire in the canton as the “Southern Cross”.

Cotton flags feature a very heavy, luxurious look and feel. They are commonly used indoors because of their old-world, handcrafted appearance but can also be flown outside, although they are not very durable or fade resistant with prolonged exposure to the outdoor elements. Cotton flags are also suitable for tea staining and/or framing and hanging indoors.