Regarding the lettering style - SHILOH and ELK TAVERN were most likely made by using the same stencil and painter who applied all the battle honors to both the 33rd AL and the 32nd & 45th MS flags 1864 Hardee type 1 flags. Also, part of the battle honors on the 15th MS Sharpshooters flag matches the stenciled lettering style of the 33rd and the 32nd/45th flags.

The remainder of the roman lettering style honors on the 8th & 19th AR flag appear to have been applied at a different time using a slightly different lettering style and method of application - apparently done freestyle without use of a stencil. Could indicate being applied at a different time and by another painter.

The Ringgold Gap upper and lower case is completely inconsistent with the other honors and might be due to a different painter and done also at another time - but brings to question why?

If these flags were issued at/near Dalton, GA during Winter Quarters in late Feb.-early Mar. 1864 as research indicates, then why not more consistency and apply all honors at the same time as all referenced engagements were over? The argument for Ringgold Gap's recognition being an explanation is plausible for that one.

Rob Swinson
reswinson@cox.net