Douschka Pickens facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Douschka Pickens
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|---|---|
| Born |
Francis Eugenia Pickens
March 14, 1859 |
| Died | August 18, 1893 (aged 34) |
| Spouse(s) | Dr. George Dugas |
| Parent(s) | Francis Wilkinson Pickens Lucy Petway Holcombe Pickens |
Francis Eugenia Olga Neva "Douschka" Pickens (later Dugas; March 14, 1859 – August 18, 1893) was a famous American woman from South Carolina. She was known for her strong leadership after the American Civil War. Douschka was the daughter of Francis Wilkinson Pickens, who used to be the Governor of South Carolina. Her mother was Lucy Holcombe Pickens.
Douschka was born in Russia in 1859. There was a rumor that her real father was Czar Alexander II, the ruler of Russia. She became a well-known figure in Edgefield County, South Carolina. She was nicknamed the "Joan of Arc of Carolina" because of her leadership during important elections.
Early Life and Family Connections
Douschka Pickens was born on March 14, 1859. Her parents were Francis W. Pickens and Lucy Holcombe. They got married just before moving to Russia in 1858. Her father had been chosen to be the U.S. Minister to the Russian Empire. This was like being an ambassador for the United States.
While living in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Lucy became pregnant. She gave birth to her daughter, Francis Eugenia, at the grand Winter Palace. The Russian Empress, Maria Alexandrova, gave the baby a special nickname. She called her "Douschka," which means "little darling" in Russian. This name stuck with her throughout her life.
Leadership in South Carolina
After the American Civil War ended, Douschka Pickens became a very active leader. She was especially important in Edgefield County, South Carolina. She was part of a group called the Red Shirts movement. Douschka was known for her bold style. She often wore a red cape and a red feather in her hair.
She played a big role in the 1876 governor election. In this election, General Wade Hampton III was running for governor. Douschka's strong leadership during this time earned her the nickname "Joan of Arc of Carolina." This nickname compared her to the famous French heroine.
Later Life and Legacy
Douschka Pickens married Dr. George Couvier Dugas. He was from Augusta, Georgia. On December 18, 1884, Douschka and Dr. Dugas had a son. They named him Louis Alexander Dugas III.
Sadly, Douschka passed away suddenly in 1893. She was only thirty-four years old. She is buried in Edgefield, South Carolina. Her son, Louis, died almost five years later. He passed away on June 26, 1898, when he was thirteen years old.
