The gilt grip of this beautiful presentation cane is inscribed "Presented to/Genl. Thomas M. Hite/by Col. R.A./Hawkins,/of East Tennessee. At the time of writing, little information could be found about either of these individuals, though it is likely from the Civil War era. It appears that a Thomas M. Kite was attending the Kentucky Military Institute in 1851. The sides of the grip has extensive floral motifs on a stippled background. The smooth hardwood shaft is tipped with iron. It measures 35 1/2 inches overall.

Very good, the grip retaining most of the bright gilt finish with a few scattered minor handling marks. The shaft is fine with a few hairline age cracks and some mild wear.