Painting Tips for ACW Models
Naval Ensigns

A vessel would fly the ensign from the aftmost mast if masts were carried, or from a staff near the stern of the vessel.

Union Navy

The Union used the national flag, otherwise known as the Stars and Stripes. This was similar to the modern US flag, but had fewer stars.
The exact number and pattern of stars varied throughout the war, but a common pattern was five rows of seven stars.
Even in 1/600th, this will not be clear enough to matter, particularly once the flag is moulded into shape.

Union Flag

Confederate Navy

The Confederate navy, on the other hand, changed its flag twice during the war.
Between 4 March 1861 to 1 May 1863 , the Stars and Bars was used.

Stars & Bars

This was replaced by the "Stainless Banner" from 1 May 1863 to 4 March 1865.

2nd National Flag

From the 4 March 1865 a red stripe along the fly (away from the flagpole) edge was added to avoid confusion with a white flag of surrender.

3rd National Flag

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