As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can shed some light on the famous party that took place at the City Tavern on September 17, 1787, at the end of the Constitutional Convention. It has often been claimed that George Washington rang up a gigantic bar tab on this occasion, but the truth is a bit more nuanced.
First of all, it's important to note that the party at the City Tavern was actually hosted by local soldiers for Washington, and not by his fellow delegates at the convention. This distinction is crucial because it suggests that the party was intended as a celebration for Washington, rather than a gathering of the entire convention to commemorate the completion of their work.
That being said, it is true that Washington enjoyed a drink or two at the party. He was known to appreciate fine wines and spirits, and as a respected military leader, it's not surprising that his soldiers would go to great lengths to provide him with a memorable celebration. However, the idea of him running up a gigantic bar tab seems unlikely.
During the time of the Constitutional Convention, it was common for individuals to keep accounts at taverns and settle them periodically. It is possible that Washington, like many others, had an account at the City Tavern and settled his bill at a later date. This could have given the impression of a sizable tab, but it would have been a normal practice for the time.
Furthermore, it's worth considering the context of the party. The Constitutional Convention was a significant and challenging event, where the future of the United States was being shaped. After months of intense debates and compromises, it's only natural that the delegates would want to celebrate and unwind. It's possible that the party at the City Tavern was a culmination of this collective relief and joy, rather than a lavish affair solely focused on Washington's personal indulgence.
In my own experiences as a sommelier and brewer, I have witnessed celebrations where individuals, including respected leaders, have enjoyed a variety of alcoholic beverages. However, it is rare to see excessive drinking leading to exorbitant tabs. Most people tend to drink responsibly and within their means, even in celebratory situations.
While it is true that George Washington enjoyed a drink or two at the party hosted by local soldiers at the City Tavern, the notion of him ringing up a gigantic bar tab is not supported by historical evidence. The party was likely a collective celebration, and any expenses incurred would have been settled in due course, following the customary practices of the time.