A group of 34 silk samples taken from 14 brittle Civil War flags was provided by the Capitol Preservation Committee, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Elemental analyses of these samples were obtained by energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS). Total sulfur, ash, and pH of the samples is also reported, and colorants were determined. The presence of mordants, weighting materials, and colorants is discussed with reference to the embrittlement of the silk. The connection between fiber deterioration and color is discussed as well as the effects of contemporary manufacturing treatments on the present fiber condition. None of the samples examined was weighted with inorganic salts.