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Vermont Civil War Battle Flags
The Vermont Battle Flags located in this case have been untouched since being placed there over 130 years ago. The 18th Vermont Regiment is leading an effort to get these flags restored. One half of the 68 flags in the collection have been "stabilized" or stored in a manner preventing further deterioration. The rest of the banners are located in the "hall of flags" at the Statehouse and have remained untouched since being placed in cabinets nearly 134 years ago. The passage of time has added to their original battle damage taking a toll on these "beloved colors" around which many a Vermonter rallied to preserve the Union. For many a Civil War soldier a regimental flag nearly took on religious significance. There are numerous references in soldiers' writings to the "sacred banners" of their cause. Many gave their lives attempting either to capture or protect a regimental or national color. Made of hand embroidered silk, with hand painted details, this unique collection remains a treasured window to our past.
Left, The Flag of the 2nd Vermont Battery Light Artillery. The battery mustered into service December 16, 1861 and mustered out of service September 20, 1864. The battery was involved in many engagements in Mississippi and Louisiana. During the course of it's existence, The 2nd VT Battery suffered 277 casualties. Right, The Flag of the 1st Vermont Battery Light Artillery. The battery mustered into service February 18, 1862 and mustered out of service August 10, 1864 with those members whose term of enlistment had not expired transferring to the 2nd battery. The battery also served in Mississippi and Louisiana. The 1st VT Battery suffered 136 casualties.
This case in the Statehouse contains flags that were restored several years ago, including the flag of the 1st Vermont Cavalry shown in the foreground. In the background the staffs of several flags can be seen. Among these are three staffs from flags carried by the 5th Vermont Infantry. For more information on helping to preserve the Vermont Battle Flags, email the 18th Vermont Regiment at: eighteenthvtregt@aol.com
To view large photographs of additional Vermont Civil War Battle Flags Click on the desired selection below. Note: These are large files and may have slow load times
Home / Civil War Expo / Battle Flags / Photo / Who / Membership / Links / Contact All Photos on this page by Andy Ward © 2002 by The Eighteenth Vermont Regiment Inc. Volunteers for Historic Preservation . All rights reserved. All images copyrighted by the 18th Vermont and may not be used without permission. site design by Arete Wave Design. |
