Mischianza
The Mischianza (pronounced [miˈskjantsa]; Italian for "medley" or "mixture"), or Meschianza, was an elaborate fête given in honor of British General Sir William Howe in Philadelphia on May 18, 1778.
Howe, the commander-in-chief of the British forces in America during the early years of the
Joseph Wharton
of the well-known Philadelphia Whartons.
The crowd of over 400 guests included Admiral of the Fleet
Henry Clinton, commandant at New York and Howe's replacement; Peggy Shippen, future wife of Benedict Arnold; Peggy Chew, daughter of Benjamin Chew; Rebecca Franks, daughter of loyalist David Franks; Lord Cathcart; Banastre Tarleton; and Wilhelm von Knyphausen
, a General of the Hessians, a mercenary unit of the German Military.
André, who was "social director" to the army in winter, was known as a poet, actor, etc. He was also well known as a competent violinist. As stage director, he painted background scenes for plays produced by acting members of the English Army.
Sources
External links
- The Book of Days article on the Mischianza
- Article in American Heritage magazine by Morris Bishop
- Mischianza, 1881 painting of the event by Frederick James
- Engraved Mischianza ticket
- Major André's Description of the Mischianza
- Sketch by John André from the event
- An account of the event
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