[RECONSTRUCTION/NEW ORLEANS/DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF] [General Christopher Colon Augur/ Margaret Haughery] [The Thousand Dollar Sword] "To Major General C. Colon Augur, United States Army. A Testimonial of highest esteem for His tried valor, His rare judgment and His lofty patriotism, from Margaret." E10000-15000 A fine gold- plated presentation sword, late 19th century, manufactured by Clauberg Solingen, Prussia, retailed by A.B. Griswold, New Orleans, having intricately burnished design on blade, the hilt having reticulated guard of foliate design combined with an eagle, molded knuckle guard incorporating the figure of Minerva, spiral grooved silver grip with globular relief pommel surmounting cartouche inscribed "Ducit Amor Patriae". The nickel scabbard with gold-plated mounts, suspension rings, presentation inscription, and "New Orleans, April 24, 1877 ' The sword together with its leather and braided suspensory are fitted in a silk-lined mahogany case marked "A.B. Griswold & Co., New Orleans". The sword is accompanied by a hand- written testimonial dated April 24, 1877 from Margaret Haughery to General Augur which reads in part, "General, today Louisiana rejoices .. and with her rejoicing mingles most heartfelt thanks to you... Louisiana honors and holds in grateful memory those Soldier Patriots who in times of trouble have extended to her a helping hand. First came jackson who freed her soil from foreign foes... now you, General Augur, to whom has been accorded the sweet and holy mission to hold out the Olive Branch to restore peace, harmony and good will to the people of this State." Also included is the original draft of Augur's letter of August 6, 1877 to Mrs. Haughery accepting the sword (for a printed transcript of the letter see Margaret, by Raymond Martinez, Hope Publications, Jefferson, Louisiana n.d. [1967] p. 43-44 See also p. 42-43 for an account of the presentation of the sword. Entitled "The Thousand Dollar Sword", it relates Margaret Haugherys admiration of General Augur's tenure as commander of the Department of the Gulf Sold together with General Augur's walking cane with gold-filled top engraved, "C.C. Augur, U.S.A., 1894", and several newspaper clippings including an obituary of Margaret Haughery and the subscription list to the "Margaret" monument fund. Also sold with General Augur's diploma from the United States Military Academy, West Point, 1843, signed by Richard Delafield, Superintendent, various faculty members, and counter-signed by Irwin Mcdowell Augur graduated 16th of 39 classmates. Note: Margaret Haughery was one of the most revered figures in 19th century New Orleans. She devoted her life to the poor especially orphans, and built the St. Vincent Infant Asylum and St. Elizabeth's Asylum. She is also known for her legendary exploits during General Ben Butler's occupation of the city: she was said to be the only woman in the city who stood up to Butler and got away with it. Her obituary was on the front page of The Picayune, headed simply, 'Margaret. Long shall we seek her likeness - long in vain". Margaret Haughery has the distinction of being the first woman in America to have a monument erected in her memory. The memorial statue still stands at "Margaret Place", where Camp St. and Prytania St. merge.