1862: Red, white, and Battered
New York State Capitol
August 2012 – June 2013

This exhibition reveals the hardships and sacrifices New Yorkers endured in 1862, the first full year of the Civil War, by showcasing nine conserved flags from the New York State Battle Flag Collection. The flags, some battered on bloody battlefields, others produced to honor heroism or to promote service, reflect the war’s deadly consequences and express the public’s continued devotion. Not only does this exhibition identify the men and women responsible for the production of the flags, but it also presents the tangible reminders that inspired thousands of New Yorkers to risk their lives for this state and nation.         

Support for this exhibition and related programs has been provided by The Coby Foundation

Guided tours of the exhibit are now available. Learn more here (See 'Special Program' section) or here.

Exhibition themed lesson plan available. Learn more here.

Southwest view of the gallery

The exhibition includes the following flags:

61st New York Volunteers - national color
7th Battery, New York Volunteers - flank marker/battery flag
55th New York Volunteers - flank marker
U.S. Signal Corps Battle Honor Flag - David Taylor (1995.3342.3)
16th New York Volunteers - regimental color
5th New York Volunteers - national color
9th New York Volunteers - regimental color
144th New York Volunteers - general guide flag (2001.0062)
88th New York Volunteers - regimental color ("Irish Color")

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