Presented is an early example of a sea bag possibly dating as far back as 1795. It was made either ashore or at sea for a named seaman, out of linen panels and hand sewn and hand embroidered. It is decorated with with traditional symbols of the period comprised of:


• 19 Star and 15 stripe American flag
• Large ornate star medallion on the bottom
• Anchor
• Tree and serpent - Adam & Eve 
• Numerous other stars

The embroidery is done in gold, navy and beige thread, and is of exceptionally fine quality indicating a very accomplished artisan as shown by the star emblem on the bottom of the bag.

THE FLAG: The nineteen star, fifteen stripe flag dates from 1795 when the number of stars and stripes were increased to reflect the entry of Kentucky and Vermont into the Union. It is the style flag that flew at Fort Mc Henry in 1812 inspiring Francis Scott Key to write “The Star Spangled Banner“, now our national anthem. This arrangement was not changed until April, 1818 when the number of stars was increased to twenty, and the number if stripes reduced to thirteen, honoring the original colonies.



19 Stars and 15 Stripes used from 1795 until 1818

CONDITION:This piece is in excellent condition for its age. It shows some inserted star embroidery over a worn area, and there is an abrasion next to the owner's name. Mounted and framed, this would be a stunning folk art textile piece.



Owner's signature and abrasion to right

SAILOR'S NAME: The handwritten initials and the last name on the bag are difficult to read, and we suggest two possibilities. Either S.B. Haywood or R.B. Raymond. It is rare that the owner of a sea bag such as this is known so that some research as to who this person was will pay lasting dividends and add appreciably to its value.



Major elements of design with more on bottom and perimeters


After 1718, American linen quality improved greatly due to over 100 Scotch-Irish families from Northern Ireland, a center for the production of fine linens, arriving in North America bringing with them their important manufacturing skills. They made Londonderry, New Hampshire their home, and the area developed into a center for American linen manufacturing in the 18th century.


A religious symbol dating back to early Christianity


UNCONDITIONAL NO NONSENSE GUARANTEE: If not completely satisfied with your purchase it may be returned within five days of receipt in its original packaging if without damage. Return items must be insured for their full value. Only a prior email authorization from us for the return is required. Shipping charges are  included in this offer if an error is due to our fault.

International buyers welcome, but should inquire first.  We have satisfied customers in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Estonia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Martinique, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Nova Scotia, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, USVI and the Eastern Caribbean.

SHIPPING, PACKING & INSURANCE to the 48 contiguous States $25.00



ACCEPTED FORMS OF PAYMENT are Bank wire transfer, cashier's check, or personal check in which case the item will be held until cleared. No checks from overseas buyers, no credit cards or PayPal accepted on this item.

Buy this very special relic from America's early seagoing history!  Add it to your collection now. Copyright 2012 - 2010 by Land And Sea Collection™, All Rights Reserved