In 2011 Georgia residents have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute in a tangible way to preserving a unique part of Georgia history: bringing the Appling Sword back to Georgia.
The Appling Sword is an elaborate ceremonial sword commissioned by the Georgia Legislature in 1814 to be presented to Lt. Col. Daniel Appling, a native of Georgia and a hero of the War of 1812.
Daniel Appling was born in Columbia County, Georgia, in 1787 and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1805 at the age of 18. He rose through the ranks and was made a captain in April of 1812. He is best remembered for his leadership in the Battle of Big Sandy Creek.
On a secret mission to supply ships at Sackett Harbor, N.Y., American troops were detected and withdrew up Big Sandy Creek, pursued by British troops.
Using guerilla tactics such as those of his predecessors in the American Revolution, Appling deployed his men in the brush and trees along the banks of the creek and surprised the British force.
In less than 15 minutes the battle was over and resulted in a stunning American victory: 14 enemy combatants killed, 30 wounded, and 143 captured. Only two American combatants were wounded.
In addition, Appling and his men captured three gun boats, and two large field pieces. Following the battle, Appling and his men delivered their supplies safely.
Appling also distinguished himself against British forces in Plattsburgh, N.Y., in what is considered to be the most decisive battle of the War of 1812. He resigned from the army in 1816 at the ripe old age of 29.
The Georgia Legislature voted to award a ceremonial sword to Appling in recognition of his superior leadership and brilliant victories on the field of battle. Unfortunately, Appling died March 5, 1817, before the sword could be presented to him.
For many years the sword was displayed in the state capitol building. In 1907 the sword and several other artifacts were sent to the Jamestown Exposition (marking the 300th anniversary of the founding of that colony) to be displayed in the Georgia building. No record has been found of the sword after that date.
It seemed as if the Appling Sword had vanished into thin air – until 2010. That year, an antiques magazine carried a photo of the Appling Sword. It was being offered for sale for $250,000.
David Carmichael, director of the Georgia Archives, saw the ad and contacted the antiques dealer. Through negotiations, the antiques dealer has reduced the price of the sword to $100,000 – if Georgians can raise the funds by Dec. 31, 2011. For this reason, the Appling Sword Campaign was initiated.
Because of budgetary concerns, the state of Georgia is not contributing to the Appling Sword Campaign. The Georgia Archives, the Georgia Capitol Museum, and a number of hereditary organizations are spearheading the drive to bring the sword back to Georgia, where it will reside in the Hall of Valor in the Georgia Capitol.
For those of us who love Georgia and love Georgia history, this is an opportunity to return a piece of our history to its rightful place of honor in our state. Contributions can be made online at www.fogah.org (Friends of Georgia Archives & History). All contributions are tax deductible. Please visit the FOGAH website for more information – including a photo of the sword and its scabbard.
A fitting tribute to Lt. Col. Daniel Appling would be the return of his ceremonial sword in time for the Bicentennial of the War of 1812. Help us bring the Appling Sword home.
Rebecca M. West
State Chairman, Public Relations
Georgia Society United States Daughters of 1812
National Society United States Daughters of 1812
Fayetteville, Ga.
