George Washington’s farewell party bar tab still survives. With just 55 guests, they consumed 54 bottles of Madeira, 60 bottles of claret, 8 bottles of whiskey, 22 bottles of porter, 8 bottles of hard cider, 12 bottles of beer, and 7 bowls of alcoholic punch.
In September 1787, just days before the U.S. Constitution was signed, George Washington attended a farewell dinner at Philadelphia’s City Tavern with fellow Constitutional Convention delegates and members of the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry (then known as the Light Horse of Philadelphia). More than a tavern, City Tavern served as one of Revolutionary America’s leading centers for politics, business, and public life, where influential figures gathered to debate ideas, conduct business, and exchange news.
The surviving receipt has become famous because it offers a rare snapshot of 18th-century drinking culture. Madeira, prized for surviving long Atlantic voyages, was a favorite among wealthy Americans, while claret, porter, cider, beer, whiskey, and punch were all staples of social gatherings. The dinner marked a pivotal moment in American history, coming just before the Constitution was signed and the nation’s new government began to take shape.
Washington himself later became one of the country’s largest whiskey producers. At his Mount Vernon distillery, nearly 11,000 gallons of whiskey were produced in 1799, making it one of the largest commercial distilleries in early America.
DID YOU KNOW? 63 ago, yes -- in 1963 -- Dr. King delivered one of the world's most referenced speeches:
"I HAVE A DREAM!
One synopsis is his proclamation (paraphrasing) to...
LET FREEDOM RING FROM EVERYWHERE!
#CelebrateTheDream
Let's honor Dr. King!
#FREEDOM
HAPPY 56th Anniversary of EARTH DAY (April 22, 1970-2020), I'd like to encourage you. Here's a copy of my 40th Anniversary of EARTH DAY proposal sent to Andrew Young, Oprah, Sir Richard Branson, and 5 other national leaders. Persevere.
https://t.co/Nkjsh5LRNT
#CelebrateTheDream
SEEKING Andrew Young's assistance, or a courageous activist like him, to lead in rebranding ATL: World's Busiest Airport to honor Dr. King, and other globally-respected peacebuilders >>> Our news release...
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Yes! Happy Feb 1st! I wish everyone a very memorable Black History Month -- whether you are Red, Yellow, Black, or White --- let's do this right.
Paul Robeson, Esq is a GREAT WORLD leader to celebrate. Tragically he's still mostly unknown & unheralded.
https://t.co/uHEFqmC4OP
TODAY, I wish all of my connections a memorable day! I always look for synchronicity, auspiciousness, and good providence. I celebrate being a part of your lives and all good things you stand for. TODAY we have the power of the planets aligning WITH us?
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