Philadelphia, PA
- On September 17, 1787, just days after the grueling and momentous task of drafting the U.S. Constitution was complete, the city of Philadelphia erupted in celebration. At the center of this revelry was a farewell dinner held at the historic City Tavern to honor General George Washington for his leadership. The event has since become legendary, not just for its historical significance, but for its staggering bar tab—a bill so large it provides a fascinating glimpse into the celebratory spirit that marked the birth of a new nation.
A Toast to a New Nation:
Washington's fellow delegates did not host the party, but by the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, a group of local soldiers who wished to pay tribute to their commander-in-chief and celebrate the successful completion of the Constitutional Convention. The chosen venue, City Tavern, was one of the finest establishments in 18th-century America, a hub for the nation's most influential figures.
Anatomy of a Legendary Bar Tab:
The original receipt, which was carefully preserved in the archives of the First Troop, details a feast and celebration of epic proportions for the 55 guests in attendance. A significant portion of the bill was dedicated to a staggering amount of alcohol. The order for the evening included:
- 54 bottles of Madeira
- 60 bottles of Claret
- 12 bottles of whiskey
- Seven large bowls of punch
- Numerous other drinks, including cider, beer, and porter.
The bill also covered a full dinner for the 55 gentlemen, as well as meals and drinks for the musicians and servants who worked the event. In a relatable historical detail, a portion of the final cost was also to cover an unspecified number of broken glasses.
The Staggering Cost:
The total bill for the evening came to £89, 4 shillings, and 2 pence. While that may not sound like much today, when adjusted for inflation, it is equivalent to approximately $17,253 in modern dollars. This was a truly lavish affair, reflecting the immense relief and celebratory mood that followed the arduous, four-month-long convention.
While George Washington was known for his stoic and reserved demeanor, the legendary party at City Tavern showcases a more human side of the Founding Fathers' era. It stands as a testament to the joy and profound sense of accomplishment felt in Philadelphia at the successful conclusion of the Constitutional Convention. The well-preserved bill is more than just a record of an extravagant party; it's a documented reminder of the historic celebration that marked the dawn of a new American government.
