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Rare Civil War-era United States National 34-Star flag from circa 1861-1863, measuring approximately 68˝ x 140˝, made of hand-sewn wool bunting and featuring 34 upside down, single applique cotton stars with hand cut-out reverse. The stars are arranged in an extended hexagonal pattern of 3-4-5-6-5-4-3, with the remaining four stars arranged in each corner, and an applied cotton header strip bearing reinforced metal grommets. Applied to the field is a hand-sewn dark blue wool strip with the motto "Gum Swamp!!!" in reverse applique letters; the wool strip is roughly hand-sewn with a white cotton backing sewn on the obverse. In very good condition, with fading to the canton, minor staining, fraying, and some moth holes.
The 34-star flag of the United States was officially adopted on July 4, 1861, following the admission of Kansas as the 34th state on January 29, 1861. This flag is notably significant as it represents a turbulent period in American history—the Civil War. It was under this flag that President Abraham Lincoln took office and led the nation through the profound challenges of the war, which began just three months after its adoption. The flag symbolized the Union's resolve to preserve the nation despite the secession of several Southern states.
During its time, the 34-star flag flew in many pivotal moments in American history. It was carried by Union soldiers in numerous battles and was present during the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which began the process of freedom for millions of enslaved people. The flag continued to fly until July 4, 1863, when it was replaced by the 35-star flag following the admission of West Virginia.
This hand-sewn 34 Star flag, with its unique pattern of stars and the addition of the Gum Swamp banner, is a unique example of a Civil War period flag. The "Gum Swamp!!" motto likely refers to the 1st and 2nd Battles of Gum Swamp, though it is unknown when or why they were added to the flag.
The Battles of Gum Swamp, fought in April and May of 1863, were a significant yet often overlooked engagement during the Civil War. These skirmishes took place near Kinston, North Carolina. The Union's strategic objective in this area was to disrupt Confederate supply lines and gather crucial intelligence for future operations. The first engagement, on April 28th, saw Union forces under General Palmer launch a surprise attack, successfully driving the Confederate troops from their entrenched position in the swamp with minimal losses on both sides.
Just weeks later, on May 22nd, a second battle erupted at Gum Swamp in Jones County. This time, the Confederate 25th and 56th North Carolina Regiments were caught off guard and nearly encircled by five Union regiments. Forced to fight their way out or flee into the swamp, the Confederates suffered a significant defeat, with over 160 men from the 56th NC Regiment captured.
The Union attack employed a two-pronged strategy, with one column advancing along the railroad and the other flanking the Confederates through the swamp. Despite some awareness of the flanking maneuver, the 56th was overwhelmed and routed, suffering significant casualties and the capture of many soldiers. General Ransom's belated arrival with reinforcements proved insufficient, and the remaining Confederates were forced to scatter.
Following the initial Union victory, a Confederate counterattack led by General Hill forced the Union troops to retreat, although they were harassed by artillery fire throughout the night. The next morning, further skirmishing ensued before the Union forces began their retreat to New Bern. One Union column became lost in the swamp during the retreat, enduring a difficult journey before finally reaching safety. The Confederates pursued, engaging in further skirmishes before ultimately returning to Gum Swamp.
The 56th NC Regiment suffered heavy losses in the battle. While Colonel Faison was acquitted of charges related to the defeat, his reputation suffered. The blame for the disaster largely fell on General Ransom, who was deemed responsible for the insufficient Confederate force at Gum Swamp. The men of the 56th NC Regiment placed the blame on Ransom, not Faison, for their defeat.
