Description

CSS Shenandoah Naval Ensign (1864 – 1865) – American Civil War Nylon Series Reproduction Flag

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A Flag of the Last Confederate Voyage

The CSS Shenandoah Naval Ensign (1864 – 1865) – American Civil War Nylon Series Reproduction Flag commemorates the final banner flown by Confederate naval forces. As the Shenandoah sailed across the world’s oceans during the closing year of the war, this ensign represented the Confederacy’s last active warship. This 3′×5′ reproduction flag reflects the ship’s enduring symbol of southern maritime resistance and its remarkable journey that continued months after Lee’s surrender.

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Authentic Design and Symbolism

The CSS Shenandoah Naval Ensign combines the familiar elements of the Confederate Second National Flag—known as the “Stainless Banner”—with unique proportions suited for naval service. A bold red canton bears the blue St. Andrew’s Cross edged in white and decorated with thirteen gold stars, representing all Confederate states, including those claimed but not fully held. The remainder of the flag is a pure white field, signifying purity of purpose and the Confederacy’s maritime honor.

Commissioned in October 1864, the Shenandoah was a former British merchant ship refitted for war. Under Captain James Waddell, she captured or destroyed thirty-eight Union whalers, operating as far north as the Arctic Ocean. Even after the Confederacy had collapsed, Waddell—unaware of the surrender—continued to fly this ensign until August 1865. Her final lowering of the flag in Liverpool, England, marked the last official act of the Confederate Navy.

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Expertly Crafted in the United States

Each flag in the American Civil War Nylon Series is proudly made in the USA using premium all-weather nylon for strength, color brilliance, and long-lasting durability. The fabric resists fading and flies easily even in light winds. A canvas heading with solid brass grommets ensures secure mounting for indoor or outdoor display. Furthermore, each flag carries FMAA certification from the Flag Manufacturers Association of America (FMAA), confirming genuine American materials and craftsmanship.

This 3′×5′ reproduction upholds the same attention to precision and respect for history that define every flag in the Civil War series.

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Commemorate America’s Naval Heritage

Displaying this CSS Shenandoah Naval Ensign (1864 – 1865) – American Civil War Nylon Series Reproduction Flag honors the final voyage of the Confederate Navy and its place in maritime history. It connects collectors, historians, and educators to the dramatic story of the Shenandoah—the ship that fired the last Confederate shots of the war in the Arctic. Whether exhibited in a museum, classroom, or private collection, this flag represents endurance, honor, and the twilight of naval conflict in America’s Civil War.

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Explore More Historical and Civil War Flags

Expand your collection by visiting our Historical and Civil War Flags series. Each reproduction merges historical research with fine American craftsmanship, preserving the legacy of the banners that defined both Union and Confederate service at sea and on land.

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Learn More About the CSS Shenandoah

To explore the ship’s legendary voyage, visit CSS Shenandoah (1864) and Naval History and Heritage Command Archives. You can also read the Smithsonian’s feature, “A Confederate Raider Fired the Final Shots of the Civil War in the Arctic”, which captures her remarkable end.