Cane made of maple owned by James Buchanan. Long, tapered with tip and 2-part handle of ivory. Handle grip is in the shape of a lily or trumpet flower. Lower section is elaborately carved w/ high-relief eagle on a background of leaves, stars and banner w/ "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Inscribed in black on side of handle in script is "James Buchanan / from E.C.L." Believed to be gift of Elizabeth Chapman Lawrence, friend of Buchanan and Harriet Lane.
Provenance
Descent from Buchanan to James B. Lane, grand nephew, then to donor's husband, grandson of J. B. Lane.
Cracks in handle and separation. Stains on wood. Ivory tip scarred.
Object ID
W.89.58
Notes
The cane was owned by James Buchanan and at his death given to James B. Lane, his grand nephew. It was passed down to the donors husband as grandson of James B. Lane.
Cigar carrying case. Cardboard cylinder. 1 piece slides into the other, with 3/4" insert with label: "NONE ARE GENUINE BUT THOSE BEARING THE NAME OF THE FIRM IN FULL KIRBY, BEARD & CO. And the trademark, an elephant's head on a coronet." Tradmark is pictured on the label.
Outside covered with paper with design of brown dots in curving lines on tan background. Some writing in ink on detached round end piece (98.21.b)-- difficult to read "185?".
Raised bust profile of Buchanan in center on obverse with 'Hon. James Buchanan' around edge. Reverse: Raised circular wreath with 'Buchanan-The Crisis Demands His Election' in the center and 'The Union one and Indivisible' around edge with star at bottom
Political ribbon. Off-white silk framed ribbon, black printing with detailed bust of James Buchanan with his signature below. Maker's mark on ribbon '[Daguerreotype by Brody' 'Engraved by J.C. But[tre]'
Political ribbon. Robin's-egg-blue color silk, possibly faded. Printed bust of James Buchanan with 'For President James Buchanan For Vice-President John C. Breckenridge. We Po'ked 'em in '44, We Pierced 'em in '52, And we'll 'Buck 'em' in '56.' Maker's m
Silk political ribbon. Champagne pink silk, possibly faded. Printed bust of James Buchanan with 'For President James Buchanan For Vice President John C. Breckenridge. We Po'ked 'em in '44, We Pierced 'em in 52, And We'll 'Buck 'em' in '56.' Maker's mark
