What is the Society of Cincinnati Anyway?

After reading about the $5.3 million for the badge, it came to my attention that I had no knowledge of this organization. I taught US history for nine years, and yet...no knowledge. I must admit to being a bit embarrassed. You'd think a history teacher would know.

I wiki'd it and found out some info.

It is an organization in the US and France and named after Lucius Cincinnatus of Rome who left his farm to accept a term as Roman Consul and was Magister Populi for a short time, essentially a dictator. This was during an emergency. Once it was over, he gave up his power and returned to plowing his fields on his farm.

This is in keeping with what I believe to be Washington's idea of leadership.

The bald eagle is the organization's symbol.

Members adhere to three rules:

1. To preserve the rights so dearly won in the revolution,
2. To promote the continuing union of states,
3. To assist members in need, their widows, and their orphans.

Today, the main focus of the estimated 3,700 members is to increase the knowledge of public awareness of American history from the Revolution to the War of 1812.

Ronald Reagan was a member,

The national headquarters of the Society is in the Anderson House in Washington, DC.

Well, You Can't Know Everything. --'Coot

So, You Just Had $5.3 million Lying Around

At auction this past week, a gold eagle medallion presented by George Washington's family to the Marquis de Lafayette with what is believed to be the original ribbon and red leather box, was sold for $5.3 million.

It was bought by La Foundation de Chambran, Lafayette's home in France, where it will be displayed.

In 1783, Washington, Lafayette and other men from the Revolution formed the Society of Cincinnati which was devoted to keeping alive the Revolution's ideals. Eagle badges were given to its members.

Washington designed the badge. It was consigned to auction by Lafayettes's great-great granddaughter.

Interesting, But Too Expensive for This Coot. --Cooter