Gold cane, likely a presented piece, belonging to Augustus W. Bradford. Bradford was Governor of Maryland during the Civil War. Professionally executed, Its inscription reads “Augustus W. Bradford, Governor of Maryland, December 25th, 1863.” The reason the cane was given to Bradford is unknown, but it may have been the gift of a grateful citizen or admirer.

Augustus W. Bradford (1806-1886) was elected Governor of Maryland in late 1861 as a Union party candidate. His wartime tenure was a difficult balancing act. As Governor of a fractured border state, Bradford was often caught in the middle of heated issues. He is perhaps best known today for commuting the sentence of an African American man, Samuel Green, who was jailed for owning a copy of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Like so many other conciliatory decisions, Bradford released Green, but only on the condition that he would leave the state in 90 days. Bradford is also notable for his efforts to establish the National Cemetery in Gettysburg for Union soldiers killed during the battle there.

The cane overall is in excellent condition, its bottom cap is missing.

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Belt Buckle, Relic, Uniform]