Administrative Information

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Preferred Citation

Celebration at Yorktown Records of the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts, 1824-1825. Accession APA 692, State government records collection, The Library of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia.

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Biographical Information

Between 1824 and 1825, the Marquis de Lafayette toured the United States, stopping the longest to celebrate the anniversary of the victory at Yorktown. The celebration was held on 19 October, 1824 where he was met with large crowds, numerous militias and military groups, as well as Governor James Pleasants. For the celebration there were a number of decorations including a 45-foot tall triumphal arch, two obelisks with reliefs, an amphitheater, and a large marquee. There were also transparencies (historical scenes painted on cloth and illuminated by candlelight) commissioned for the event from artist James Warrell. Vouchers for the event show large quantities of food stuffs, beverages, china, cutlery, furniture, dyes, as well as the employment of a number of laborers. The General Assembly passed an act on 25 January 1825 authorizing the state to assume the cost of the celebration, which totaled $10,178.04.

Scope and Content

Includes an “Act Authorizing Payment of Expenses,” 1825 where the General Assembly approves the payment of $10,178.04 for the costs of the event. There are several pieces of correspondence including a between Robert G Scott to Dr. Jesse Cole, sending payment of $1,000 prior to the event to pay laborers, with Scott assuring he would provide more funds upon his arrival. A letter between William Boatwright to Henry Butler about the arrival of Boatwright’s servant, Eugene, sent to help at General Nelson’s house. There is also correspondence between James Warrell to Gov. James Pleasants, requesting payment for decorations for the event.

The vouchers are principally from William Boatwright, and cover a variety of goods and services for the celebration. Items of note include: significant quantities of Brandy, Rum, Wine, Champagne, Gin, Gunpowder tea, 50 pounds of ham bacon, 100 pounds of almonds, 55 pairs of cotton sheets, matching curtains for Lafayette’s bed, hairbrushes, payment for services as waiters, butlers, cooks, laborers, as well as transportation costs and damages.

Arrangement

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