The War of 1812 is a bit of a misnomer, mainly because the war actually lasted for two and a half years. It officially ended with the ratification of a peace treaty in February, 1815.
Oh, to be a fly on the wall in 1812. America had been autonomous for less than half a century, and it was already declaring war! This conflict between the United States and Great Britain almost bankrupted the new nation and lead New England states to consider secession. At one point, the British Army burned down part of the White House.
The war also pitted the young American government against the land’s native inhabitants. A confederation of over two dozen native tribes allied themselves with Great Britain, hoping an American defeat would curb westward expansion. Fighting and disease claimed approximately 15,000 American casualties; more, given the unnumbered Native American deaths.
This ring, which is engraved with the initials “CL,” is inscribed on the inside with the date 1812. We wonder if it was a memorial ring, made to remember a fallen son, brother, or comrade. It is fashioned in a base metal, perhaps bronze or brass, and plated in gold. An incredible antique men’s ring from the Georgian era.