Hayes Lowe
40th Flag
Tue Jan 16 09:01:12 2001


Dave,

I'm not sure where you are planning on checking, but I believe the possibility that the 40th had three flags is newly uncovered information and will not be found in a reference source.

Look again at the evidence, in particular the fact that three different dates/locations for flags being put into service for the 40th are now known.

1. Mobile, Ala. Summer 1862 (per Col. Gulley)
2. Vicksburg, Miss. 1863 (per Col. Gulley)
3. Between the Battle of Lookout Mountain and before the Atlanta Campaign [perhaps at Dalton, Ga.] (per writings of personal recollections by Henry Seale's grandfather)

The flag offered on eBay did not have the hallmarks of a reunion flag, rather, it had the hallmarks of an original. Of course, a closer examination of material, threads, techniques, etc. would be required for a more definitive determination.

I would have to differ on the likihood of the flag being sneaked out of Vicksburg. In fact, it was very surprising that the 42nd did this (almost un-chivalrous). Giving up the flags was a part of the surrender terms, and almost every regiment (other than the 42nd) freely did so in an almost ceremonial manner, and with a great deal of pride. Read some of the personal accounts of this and you will better understand what I am trying to say here.

Hayes

• 40th flag — Greg Biggs, Mon Jan 22 02:25