Fall 2024 Premier Firearms & Militaria Auction
October 31st, November 1st, 2nd, & 3rd, 2024
This auction has concluded, thank you all for your participation! Please visit our homepage for upcoming auction info
CONFEDERATE 1ST NATIONAL “STARS & BARS” BATTLEFLAG OF LT. RUSSELL CAPLES, SEARCY SHARPSHOOTERS, 16th MISSOURI INFANTRY
02-21024-1
Russell B. Caples: paper files included with this lot include a statement by Russell B. Caples stating “APRIL of 1865 a tough remnant of our old regiment fought under General Kirby Smith….Returning home to Glasgow, I kept my sash and the flag under which I had fought so many battles. Mother had died and father [Confederate chaplain] was mortally wounded by a cannon shell during the battle of Glasgow [October 15, 1864]. I arrived home with no job and two half sisters to support.”
Russell Bigelow Caples (1841-1915) entered service as private in Searcy Sharpshooters in 1862 was promoted to Lieutenant serving till June 7, 1865 when he was given his parole of honor at Shreveport, Louisiana. The Searcy Sharpshooter’s served in western theatre under Generals Earl Van Dorn & Sterling Price. Upon his return home finding such devastation, he turned to law, becoming an attorney and later a well-respected judge till his death in 1915.
He retained this wonderful early war manufactured flag, characteristic of Missouri having unusual arranged canton of 14 stars. Flag is constructed of light weight silk and in remarkable condition considering its age and use.
Flag is classic “stars & bars” or Confederate 1st National all hand sewn with 2 attached patriotic rosettes also of silk. Flag measures 41″ hoist, 2″ cotton sleeve, 62″ on fly, canton is 19″ x 17.5″ with double applique 3″ silk stars.
UNATTACHED ASSESSORIES: research letter by Confederate flag authority Greg Biggs & file of research on RB Caples and his regiment.
