Lot 68
Period Copy of Major André's Description of the Mischianza. Fifteen and a quarter pages written in 1808 by Margaret Pennington, copying from a handwritten book which was presented in 1778 by Major John André to Peggy Chew, daughter of Chief Justice Benjamin Chew and best friend of Peggy Shippen, who would marry Benedict Arnold in 1779. The book described a magnificent party, called the "Mischianza," given in Philadelphia in May 1778 by Major André in honor of General Sir William Howe, who was being recalled to London and replaced by Sir Henry Clinton as Commander of British forces in America. The event ran from 4:00 in the afternoon on May 18th until 4:00 a.m. the next day and resembled a 14th century knights' pageant. The costumes, decorations and scenery were entirely designed and directed by Major André and Captain Oliver Delancey, the highest ranking Loyalist in the British army in America. There were barges floating down the Delaware River, "knights" jousting in tournaments, and hundreds of guests dining by candlelight in a vast tent. According to Watson's annals, "It was the most splendid show of its kind ever seen in the colonies." In 1780, André would be captured and hanged as a spy for his involvement with Benedict Arnold's plan to betray West Point to the British.
Margaret Pennington, from a prominent Philadelphia family, was 16 years old in 1788 and was likely one of the 50 or so single ladies invited by Major André to perform in the costumed celebration as knights' ladies, turbaned dancing girls, etc. Many Philadelphians considered the Mischianza a scandal because American girls danced with the enemy. In any event, this manscript, which transcribes over three quarters of the original manuscript, was written thirty years after the event. The pages are 10 x 6 inches in size, entirely disbound, and written in beautiful, clear dark handwriting. With original marbleized boards and fly leafs, easily rebound. With a copy of the ticket for the Mischianza, designed by Major André. This manuscript comes from the collection of Marian S. Carson, one of Philadelphia's leading collectors for over fifty years, and is accompanied by a penciled note of provenance from Mrs. Carson. An unusual document detailing a unique occurrence during the American Revolution.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
|
| |
| Realized $1,380 |
