First Michigan Infantry Flag (Three Months) Returns from Conservation
The flag of the First Michigan Infantry Regiment (Three Months) is back home after a year of conservation treatment at Textile Preservation Associates in West Virginia.
This first regiment from Michigan initially enlisted for only three months service. They saw action at the first battle of Bull Run, where they took casualties and their Colonel and a number of soldiers were captured along with their beloved battle flag. The flag was sent to Richmond and at the end of war, it was stored in D.C. until the regiment was able to orchestrate the flag’s return to Michigan in 1886.
The flag was heavily netted in the 1960’s so conservation included removal of the 1960’s damaging net, humidification, paint consolidation and realignment and encapsulation.
Our thanks to TPA for the fine work they have done in bringing honor and dignity back to this truly important artifact.
(left) The Obverse side of the Three Months flag. (center) Textile Preservation Associates President Cathy Heffner and Director VanAcker loading up the flag of the First Three Months Regiment for its return trip home to Michigan. (right) The reverse side of the Three Months flag.