This is a very rare, framed example of an American 42-star cavalry guidon that is marked for the U.S. 10th Cavalry Regiment, more famously known as one of the African-American "Buffalo Soldier" regiments. The 10th Cavalry was formed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in 1866, and it was one of six regiments (two cavalry, four infantry) of African-American troops approved to be raised. These regiments were received their nickname from the Native American tribes they were in contact with and fighting against during the Indian Wars in the American West, during which they served with distinction. The Buffalo Soldier regiments went on to serve in one form or another in nearly every major conflict of the United States up to the present day. This "swallow-tail" guidon can be dated due to its rare 42-star configuration, a flag which was never officially adopted by the U.S. Despite never being officially adopted, flags bearing 42 stars were in service in limited numbers for 243 days between 11 November 1889, when Washington received statehood, and 3 July 1890, when Idaho became a state. The guidon is faintly marked at the center "10/[crossed sabers]/US" signifying the regiment it belonged to, and it would have been carried by them during a short period between the end of the Indian Wars and the Spanish-American War. Also included is a first addition copy of "The History of the Tenth Cavalry, 1866-1921" compiled by Major E.L.N. Glass, covering the years 1866-1921. Inside the cover is hand marked in ink "Mark Rhoads/2nd Lieut. 10th Cav./Feb., 1919-March, 1920", who was likely the original owner of the book. The guidon is contained in a hardwood frame that measures 31 x 38 1/4 inches. Provenance: The Steve Turner Collection of African Americana; The Saloga Collection

Very fine, the flag itself showing some scattered light spotting and a few scattered small holes/tears near the mounting edge. The frame is excellent with only the slightest handling/storage marks. The book is very fine with some mild yellowing of the pages and very minimal wear. This is an incredible piece of Buffalo Soldiers history that you don't want to miss!