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OSU Library Displays Historic 46-Star US Flag

November 12, 2007

For Immediate Release

STILLWATER The Oklahoma State University library is displaying a very special U.S. flag in honor of Oklahoma Statehood Day. The flag has only 46 stars, an example of the 1907 U.S. symbol.

The flag was the gift of David D. Long, whose grandfather William Hobson Long graduated from OAMC (which later became OSU) in 1923. According to Long family lore, this flag was flown the day Oklahoma was admitted to the Union, November 16, 1907.

The flag will be on public display in the Edmon Low Library’s special collections department until November 19. The special collections department is open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the flag is viewable from the department’s window anytime during library operating hours.

The flag is made from a loosely woven, linen-like material and measures 60” by 120”. According to Associate Library Dean Jennifer Paustenbaugh, the flag has been temporarily mounted on muslin to reduce any stress that may occur from displaying it.

U.S. flags, such as this one, with 46 stars flew until January 6, 1912, when New Mexico became the 47 state admitted to the Union.

This or any item from the OSU library’s special collections and university archives can be viewed by appointment year-round. For more information call (405) 744-6311,

Oklahoma State University is a modern land-grant system that cuts across disciplines to better prepare students for a new world. Oklahoma's only university with a statewide presence, OSU improves the lives of people in Oklahoma, the nation, and the world through integrated, high-quality teaching, research and outreach. OSU has more than 32,000 students across its five-campus system and nearly 21,000 on its Stillwater campus; with students from all 50 states and about 110 nations. Established in 1890, OSU has graduated more than 200,000 students who have made a lasting impact on Oklahoma and the world. CREATE - INNOVATE - EDUCATE - GO STATE!

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URL: http://www.library.okstate.edu/news/fall07/flag.htm
Last Updated: 29 May 2008