Flags had practical considerations for troops on the battlefield – they helped identify regiments and allowed commanders to more easily place their units. But they also carried special meaning for those who bore them, reflecting their devotion to the cause and helping them unite as a unit.

The Civil War Flags Collection | Ultimate Flags Store, which contains over 300 flags used by infantry, cavalry and light battery regiments in the armed conflict, is a remarkable testament to this dedication. Many of the flags exhibit signs of battle, with nicks from bullets and shrapnel tears. Their staffs display tacks and twine improvised by flag-bearers to keep them standing tall.

Journey Through Time: Civil War Flags Collection

Some of the flags have dramatic stories behind them, such as the embroidered banner of the 29th Regiment of Black soldiers recruited in New Haven and which served at the siege of Petersburg. The museum received the banner as a gift from a private collector and it is now on display. Others, like the second national Confederate flag that saw service until replaced by the third one with reversed colors in 1863, remain in acid-free boxes, but will eventually be conserved and framed for display.

The Museum is able to preserve the flags through donations of both money and materials. In addition, the General Assembly has allocated a significant amount of funds for conservation of the Civil War Flags Collection.

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