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Caption: Presentation sword and scabbard

In the 18th and early 19th centuries, it was not common for British officers to be given medals to mark outstanding service. The custom of presenting an officer with a sword filled much the same role. It was common for popular or famous men to be given an elaborately decorated sword to mark the end of a term of service, or as recognition for an act of particular skill or bravery. This presentation sword, with the hilt in silver with additional decoration in gold, was given to General Sir Gordon Drummond (1772-1854) by the Legislative Council of Upper Canada in 1814. Drummond was born in Quebec, the son of a Scottish merchant. After distinguished service in Europe, he was named president of the government and commander of the troops in Upper Canada in late 1813. Drummond commanded the British forces at the battles of Chippewa and Lundy's Lane, and the siege of Fort Erie. (Parks Canada)