In 1861 when the war was just starting, no one could have thought that it could last more than a few months. Many outfits were formed for a term length of no more than 100 days. 

The ladies from the surrounding towns felt obligated to their men and country. However, it was forbidden for a lady to enlist because of gender. The ladies would often hand sew large and elaborate flags for their men to proudly take off to battle. It was not uncommon to have ceremonies where the heads of each company would accept these before they received their marching orders. 

Findlay, McComb & Benton were just a few of the local towns that presented the first flags in this manner. This will also explain why so many early war flags can be found varying in design & size. The flag was, and still is, one of our most prized possessions.