Flag of the USS Nashville, a United States Navy gunboat in service from 1897 to 1918. The Nashville fired the first shot of the Spanish-American War during its service in the Caribbean, and later traveled to China to assist in the suppression of the Boxer Rebellion and the relief of American troops. The backing of the flag is the remnants of a Japanese newspaper, most likely dating its creation to the Nashville's voyage to Asia during the rebellion. Tears to edges of cloth. Staining to parts of flag, which is most visible on the back. Image of ship and raised eagle remain in good condition. PROVENANCE: Deaccession from the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia, PA. AJ.