Brown’s Standards and Flags of All Nations [British Colonial Flags]

Fascinating fold out chart depicting flags from nations around the world, several of which no longer exist.

Reflecting the hierarchical perception of the English citizenry, this chart shows various flags and insignia from all around the world, starting with Great Britain and the United Kingdom at the top, then its overseas possessions, then Europe, then all the rest. It was truly “The Empire on Which the Sun Never Sets,” showing the badges of nearly 80 separate British colonies. Flags of the Royal Yacht Club, signal flags, semaphore and Morse codes, and pilot signals are also depicted.

Although well into the age of steam by this time, illustrations of different types of sailing vessels and rigging systems are present. Much of the Royal Navy was obstinate about the introduction of steam power into their fleet, and this inclusion would have appealed to the purists at the time.

The publisher, James Brown & Son, got their start as stationary dealers along the River Clyde in Glasgow. This led to increased interaction with local shipping, and guided the father-and-son combo to begin publishing nautical almanacs in 1876. Brown, Son & Ferguson continues to publish charts, stationery, and magazines well into its sixth generation of owners.