Anna Mitchell Davenport Raines, born on April 8, 1853, in Savannah, Georgia, is a name intrinsically tied to the preservation of Southern heritage and history. Known for her role as a founding Vice President of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC), she dedicated her life to ensuring that the legacy of those who lived and fought during the American Civil War was remembered and respected. Raines’s work as a philanthropist and historian left an indelible mark on Savannah and the broader South.
Raines was born into a family deeply connected to the social and cultural fabric of Savannah. Her upbringing instilled in her a sense of duty to community and history. This grounding shaped her later endeavors to preserve the memory of the Confederacy and honor those who had lived through one of the most transformative periods in American history. Savannah, a city rich with historical significance, served as both her home and her muse, inspiring her commitment to remembrance.
In 1894, Raines became a central figure in the founding of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. Alongside Caroline Meriwether Goodlett of Tennessee, she was instrumental in creating an organization that would focus on honoring the memory of Confederate soldiers and supporting their descendants. Her role as the UDC’s founding Vice President showcased her leadership abilities and her vision for a united effort to preserve Southern heritage. Under her guidance, the UDC quickly became one of the most influential heritage organizations in the South. It was not merely an association for commemoration but also a network of women working to document history, care for Confederate cemeteries, and establish monuments. Raines’s influence extended beyond her formal roles. She was a tireless advocate for historical education and preservation.
One of Raines notable contributions to the UDC and Southern heritage was her involvement in the creation of the Southern Cross of Honor. This medal was awarded to Confederate veterans to recognize their service and sacrifices during the Civil War. As the Custodian of the Southern Cross of Honor, Raines ensured that this symbol of remembrance was distributed with dignity and respect. Her efforts helped to solidify the UDC’s role as a guardian of Confederate memory, ensuring that the stories of those who fought were not forgotten.
Raines’s work extended beyond the UDC. She was deeply involved in philanthropy, focusing on causes that supported education, historical research, and the preservation of Savannah’s cultural landmarks. Her commitment to community service mirrored her dedication to history, making her a figure of both reverence and admiration in Savannah society. Despite the complexities of the legacy tied to the Confederacy, her work was rooted in her desire to honor the people and experiences of her time. She sought to build bridges between the past and the future, ensuring that the sacrifices and struggles of the Civil War era were understood and contextualized for generations to come.
Raines passed away on January 21, 1915, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in Savannah and throughout the South. Her role in founding the UDC and her efforts in historical preservation have ensured that her name remains a cornerstone of Southern history. Today, visitors to Savannah can see the lasting effects of her work in the city’s monuments, cemeteries, and historical institutions. Raines’s life was a testament to the power of memory and the importance of preserving history. Her contributions to the United Daughters of the Confederacy and her dedication to Savannah’s cultural heritage make her a figure of enduring significance.
If you’d like to learn more about Anna Mitchell Davenport Raines and other influential figures from Savannah’s history, join us at Wise Guys Tours. Let us guide you through the stories and legacies that have shaped this extraordinary city.