From information in the "Commemorative Biographical Encyclopedia of Dauphin, County, Pennsylvania", 1896:
George Bergner came to America at the age of 12 years from Germany; he apprenticed himself to a printer in Reading, PA. He later became the owner of several publications, including the "Harrisburg Telegraph". in 1861 Mr. Bergner was appointed by President Lincoln postmaster at Harrisburg. He was removed by President Johnson in 1866, but upon the election of President Grant he was reapointed to the position, an office he held at the time of his death in 1874 at the age of 56.
His descendents have the golden-handled cane given to him while postmaster. It is engraved: Presented to Geo Bergner P.M. by the employees of the Harrisburg, Pa P.O. Christmas 1869.