Texas Soldiers Receive a Flag in Dumfries, Virginia - December 31st 1861

Reported the Richmond Daily Dispatch, December 31st 1861

SINGULAR STATE FLAG

The flag of the Texas camp, at Camp Wigfall, near Dumfries, Va., is made of the bridal dress of Mrs. Wigfall. Says the correspondent of the Austin Gazette:

It bears the emblem of the "Lone Star”, and this is of pure white silk, set in blue ground; the folds are purple and white. The hearts of all are riveted to it. It never will be given up. An old war-worn warrior approached it, and as his eyes gazed steadily upon the banner, he said:

"That star was made of the bridal dress of the lady of our gallant colonel. She worked it with her fair hands, and gave it to us to carry through the battles of our country. How could we fail to protect. How could we fail to protect it with our lives? No, Sir! I never failed to meet the enemy when that star was our watchword, and now when our whole South is in danger, I feel that my poor life can be given up easily upon that flag as my shroud."

The old fellow with his grey heirs, still stands before my memory. Such is the feeling of every Texan.

Mrs. Wigfall’s Wedding Dress a painting by the great historical artist Dale Gallon, depicting the 1st Texas Infantry Regiment carrying the flag during the capture of Smith’s Battery, in Devil’s Den, July 2nd 1863, Gettysburg.

General Wigfall, the commander of the Texas Brigade and later Confederate Senator, was a prominent and formidable Southern political figure in his day. A strong defender of state’s rights, staunch secessionist, and fire eater. He took up residence near his encamped troops in a Tavern near Dumfries in Prince William County, Virginia during the winter of 1861-1862.