“Birth Night of the President of the United States” Ball Invitation
October 18, 1799 - 2½ x 3¾ inches
 
Rare printed invitation for a “Birth Night” ball honoring John Adams, held at the Eagle Tavern on October 19, 1799. Civic celebrations of the president’s birthday formed an important part of the ceremonial culture of the early republic, particularly during the Federal period, when public dinners, balls, and processions reinforced loyalty to the national government. Printed invitations of this type are scarce examples of early American political and social ephemera.
 
Condition: Very fine.