LATE CIVIL WAR RHODE ISLAND CAVALRY GUIDON

LATE CIVIL WAR RHODE ISLAND CAVALRY GUIDON

02-23604

This fine example of a cavalry guidon appears to be regulation for the State of Rhode Island starting in 1864. The guidon of the 1st Cavalry of Rhode Island is in the State collection and looks very similar to the guidon offered here and is considered a sister flag to this example. The 2nd, 3rd, and 7th Cavalry squadrons of Rhode Island were merged in 1864 and this guidon was likely produced during that period, and likely used for several years after. The guidon measures approximately 43″ by 38″ at the hoist and 22 1/2″ at the tips. The yellow silk flag has a yellow fringe on all sides except the hoist. The flag portrays painted crossed sabers with blue blades and red striped gold hilts, quartered by the letters “2D”, “3D” and “7TH”. The hoist of the guidon has a 3/4″ decorative bouillon tape. The flag is enclosed in a black finished wooden frame measuring 34 1/2″ by 48 1/2″ and has not been examined out of the frame. This guidon may date as late as the 1880’s and was possibly used by the Rhode Island Veteran’s Association.