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.
@SluggoDoug I have a long list… but the first one that pops into my head, which leads to a second is “Always On My Mind” and “Opportunities” by the Pet Shop Boys.
@JackHues1@WangChungMusic Last time I’ll pester you. Thank you for an amazing evening Sunday! I have a lawn pass but got about 8th row in the pavilion for Totally Tubular and you were one of my favorite concerts this summer! You got everyone on their feet and just were the best! Take care!
@WangChungMusic@JackHues1 I’m so psyched to see you this Sunday July 28 at Blossom Music Center. Any chance you can play Hypnotize Me as it’s my favorite! Can’t wait!!! You have no idea how excited I’ve been since I discovered you joined the Totally Tubular Tour!
@donnyosmond I’m going to your show tonight and wondering if you could sing one of the following… they are my favorites: Mona Lisa, Lonely Boy, If Someone Ever Breaks Your Heart, Pretty Blue Eyes, Last of the Red Hot Lovers… Thank you! Looking forward to seeing you!
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@WolfShousha I’d never heard of the 3 quiet hours on Good Friday! I applaud your patience and following through if this and passing it on. I may try to do this myself next year, it’s a great way to observe his sacrifice.
@WolfShousha That is so awesome! Baseball can truly bring people together, whether you’re cheering for the same teams or different ones (I speak from experience with me and my mom).
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Envious to see people already boarding planes for RootsTech. One day I will go - but it's been landing on my daughter's birthday the past couple of years and that's an event I can't miss. Until then it's a virtual visit for me. Have fun, everyone!
@WolfShousha I’m so happy they married “distinctive” names. I know. And I’m glad you’ve been able to narrow your search due to DNA, such a wonderful help.