Trenton, New Jersey
November 1, 1784 to December 24, 1784
No Longer Standing
1 West State Street
Trenton, NJ 08608
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The French Arms Tavern, a historic and architecturally
significant building in Trenton, New Jersey, played a central role in early
American governance. Originally erected in 1730 as a private residence for John
Dagworthy, the house stood as the largest and most handsome structure in
colonial Trenton. Located on the southwest corner of King (now Warren) Street
and Second (now State) Street, the property boasted 66 feet of frontage on King
Street and extended 230 feet along Second Street.
The main structure, measuring 45 by 43 feet, rose two
stories high with a gable roof. Each floor featured a spacious central hall
that ran east to west, flanked by four rooms, each equipped with large
fireplaces. The attic housed an exceptionally large room, while a two-story
kitchen at the rear served as quarters for servants. At the far end of the
property stood a coach house and stables. The main entrance was accessed by
eight stone steps leading to a broad landing and a central door on King Street.
The Tavern's Transformation
In the decades following its construction, the building
underwent several transformations. On November 1, 1740, Dagworthy leased the
house to the Colony of New Jersey to serve as the residence of Royal Governor
Lewis Morris. After Governor Morris relocated on June 25th, 1742, to
"Kingsbury" now known as the William Trent House, 15 Market Street. In August, Dagworthy returned to his former
residence, moving from his Maidenhead Plantation home (Lawerencefield, NJ) and
remained there until his death on September 4th, 1756.
In 1760, Dagworthy's executors sold the house to Samuel
Henry, an iron manufacturer, who lived there until leasing it to Jacob G.
Bergen in 1780, after moving to his farm on Nottingham Township. Bergen, a
seasoned innkeeper, had operated the College of Princeton Inn, which he
later named the Confederation Inn. He extensively renovated the structure, adding a
third story with a dormer-windowed roof, converting two first-floor rooms into
a spacious 20-by-43-foot "Long Room," and establishing a barroom in
the basement.
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MURAL COMMEMORATING THE FIRST PUBLIC READING OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE at 23 South Warren Street, Trenton, NJ 08608 next door to the original site of the French Arms Tavern |
The building, described as a "Dwelling-house 45
by 43 Feet, 3 Stories, 11 Rooms, eight with Fireplaces, a Kitchen and Stabling
for 12 Horses." , was renamed
the "Thirteen Stars Tavern," reflected Bergen’s ambition to create a
venue suitable for both hospitality and public gatherings.
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| French Arms Tavern Sketch after third floor addition in 1781 - Historic.us |
In 1784, a commission appointed by the New Jersey
Legislature leased the French Arms Tavern—then still the largest building in
Trenton—for use by the United States in Congress Assembled (USCA). To prepare
the building for its prestigious occupants, significant renovations were
undertaken. The walls of the expansive Long Room were re-papered, the floors
carpeted, and a central platform constructed on the south side of the room,
positioned between two fireplaces. The room was outfitted with thirteen newly
acquired tables covered in green cloth and forty-eight Windsor chairs to
accommodate the delegates.
The meticulous records of the New Jersey State Archives
document the expenditures for these preparations: twelve tables were purchased
for £4.10.0, along with carpets, curtains, and green table coverings for an
additional £1.18.7. Fireplace tools were procured for £2.2.6, and the two large
rooms designated for congressional use were "lime and white-washed"
twice over at a cost of £0.10. These enhancements underscored the state's
commitment to providing a dignified and functional space for the nation’s legislative
body. [NJ Archives, Vol. XX, pages 69, 441, Infa. pages 21–23]
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French Arms Tavern diagram of the first floor in 1784 - Historic.us |
“Memorandum of an Agreement Bewtween Jacob, G, Bergen of the one part & Moore Furman, James Ewing, & Conrod Kotts of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Jacob G. Bergen doth hereby agree to Rent the house he now lives in Situate near the market house in Trenton late the Propery of Saml Henry Deced and now held by lease for and until the first day of April in the Year Seventeen hundred and Eighty Six at the Yearly rent of one hundred and fift pounds, unto the said Moore Furman, James Ewing, & Conrod Kotts for the use & purpose of the Congress of the United States of America to Set in from the thirtyeth day of October next for and until the End and Expiration of the said Lease. In Consideration of which the said Moore Furman, James Ewing, & Conrod Kotts Doth agree to pay or cause to be paid unto the said Jacob G. Bergen the sum of one hundred and Seventy-five pounds by an order on the Treasurer of this state on the 30th day of October in Gold or Silver Money and also to pay or cause to be paid the said yearly rent of one hundred and fifty pounds Agreeabbly to the said lease & it is further agreed upon that the said Jacob G. Bergen is to have and retain the use of the stables and garden ground for and during and so long as the Congress may set in said house and it ia agreed upon that the said Jacob G. Bergen is to live in & Make use of the said House until the said 30th day of October and until said Congress many want the Same to set in. In Witness Whereof the said Jacob G. Bergen hath set his hand and seal this 1st day of August 1784.
Witness Present: Jacob G. Bergen [SEAL]
Dan Yard
Charles Brady
Lease - £175
Table for Congress Hall - £15”
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Memorandum of an Agreement Between Jacob, G, Bergen and the agents of the State of NJ to lease the French Arms Tavern for the United States in Congress Assembled Nov 1784 to Nov 1785 Session - - Historic.us |
In the summer of 1783, the Third United States in Congress
Assembled (USCA) faced the pressing question of where to establish the nation’s
permanent seat of government. This debate emerged amid competing interests
between Northern and Southern states. To address the sectional divide,
President Elias Boudinot’s Congress, convening in Princeton after fleeing
Philadelphia on June 24, 1783, proposed a dual-capital system. On October 7,
1783, it resolved:
“That the place on the Delaware for erecting buildings for
the use of Congress, be near the falls. Resolved, That a committee of five be
appointed to repair to the falls of Delaware, to view the situation of the
country in its neighbourhood, and report a proper district for carrying into
effect the preceding resolution: the members, Mr. [Elbridge] Gerry, Mr.
S[amuel] Huntington, Mr. [Richard] Peters, Mr. [James] Duane, Mr. [Abraham]
Clark”.[i]
Two weeks later, on October 21, 1783, Congress
expanded the resolution to include a second federal district::
“That buildings be likewise erected for the use of Congress,
at or near the lower falls of Potomac or Georgetown; provided a suitable
district on the banks of the river can be procured for a federal town, and the
right of soil, and an exclusive jurisdiction, or such other as Congress may
direct, shall be vested in the United States: and that until the buildings to
be erected on the banks of the Delaware and Potomac shall be prepared for the
reception of Congress, their residence shall be alternately at equal periods,
of not more than one year, and not less than six months in Trenton and
Annapolis; and the President is hereby authorised and directed to adjourn
Congress on the 12th day of November next, to meet at Annapolis on the
twenty-sixth day of the same month, for the despatch of public business.”.[2]
The dual-capital plan envisioned alternating Congressional
sessions between Trenton, New Jersey, and Annapolis, Maryland, until permanent
facilities were built near the designated sites. This arrangement was intended
to foster regional balance and accommodate delegates from both Northern and
Southern states.
On October 30, 1783, the USCA resolved:
“That the President transmit to the executives of New
Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, copies of the acts of Congress of
the 7 instant respecting buildings to be erected for a federal town on the
banks of the Delaware; and of the acts of the 1 instant respecting buildings to
be erected on the banks of the Potomac, for a second federal town, and the
adjournment of Congress to Annapolis.”[3]
The dual-capital strategy reflected a pragmatic attempt to
unify the fledgling nation. However, the logistics of bilocation soon revealed
its inherent challenges. On November 1st the Third USCA began to wrap up its business
resolving "That the several matters now before Congress, be referred over
and recommended to the attention of the United States in Congress assembled, to
meet at this place on Monday next."
On November 3, 1783, the Fourth USCA convened, electing
Thomas Mifflin as president and Daniel Carroll as chairman to preside in
Mifflin’s absence. The Fourth USCA moved swiftly to address critical issues,
including the discharge of the Continental Army. On November 4, 1783, it
authorized:
“That the discharge of the Continental Army, except 500 men,
with proper officers” [4]
After adjourning on November 12, Congress voted to reconvene
in Annapolis on November 26 to continue its deliberations.
The Fourth USCA’s Struggles with Dual Capitals
Despite its initial momentum, the Fourth USCA faced
difficulties in implementing the dual-capital plan. The inability to form a
quorum until December 13, 1783, hindered progress. While Congress revisited the
issue of federal districts during its Annapolis session, it achieved little
headway. The dual-capital concept remained unresolved as logistical and
political challenges persisted.
A pivotal shift occurred on May 7, 1784, when Congress
elected Paris Peace Commissioner and former Continental Congress President John
Jay as Secretary for Foreign Affairs. The election occurred without Jay’s
knowledge or consent while he was overseas. This decision inadvertently set the
stage for the eventual abandonment of the dual-capital vision.
John Jay’s Objections and Influence
John Jay returned to New York on July 24, 1784, and
expressed immediate reservations about the dual-capital system. He declined the
position of Secretary for Foreign Affairs, citing the instability of a
government that alternated between locations. In a letter to USCA Secretary
Charles Thomson dated October 20, 1784, Jay wrote:
"I must decline accepting the Place offered me, at
least until the Sense of Congress may be known on two or three points....as I
have a Family it is necessary in my opinion, that my Residence should be
stationary---; and I think it both reasonable & important that the Persons
to serve under me in the office, should be of my appointment."[5]
Jay’s insistence on a stationary government highlighted the
inefficiencies and impracticalities of the dual-capital arrangement.
The Fourth USCA, was unable to form a quorum until December
13th, 1783, took up the matter of two federal districts but made
little headway on the capitals' development during their Annapolis, MD
session. On May 7, 1784, however, the USCA elected Paris Peace
Commissioner and former Continental Congress President John Jay,
Secretary for Foreign Affairs, while he was overseas without his knowledge
or consent, which began the process of overturning the two capitol solution..
John Jay did not learn of his important appointment until he
arrived in New York on July 24th, 1784. He indicated that with the current flux of the
U.S. Seat of Government’s bilocation, he was not interested in accepting the
position. As late as October 20, 1784, John Jay wrote USCA Secretary
Charles Thomson:
"I must decline accepting the Place offered me, at
least until the Sense of Congress may be known on two or three points....as I
have a Family it is necessary in my opinion, that my Residence should be
stationary---; and I think it both reasonable & important that the Persons
to serve under me in the office, should be of my appointment."[6]
On October 26th, 1784, John Jay was elected
a delegate to the Fifth United States in Congress Assembled, which was to
assemble at the French Arms Tavern, in Trenton, New Jersey on the first Monday
of November.
Preparations for the Fifth USCA at the French Arms Tavern
On October 26, 1784, John Jay was elected as a delegate to
the Fifth United States in Congress Assembled, set to convene at the French
Arms Tavern in Trenton, New Jersey, on the first Monday of November. The
tavern, Trenton’s largest and most prominent building, underwent extensive
renovations to accommodate Congress. Walls were re-papered, floors were
carpeted, and a central platform was constructed in the Long Room. Thirteen
green-cloth-covered tables and forty-eight Windsor chairs were procured for the
delegates.
As the Fifth USCA prepared to meet, the stage was set for
significant discussions about the future of the federal capital and the
governance structure of the United States.
Congress's stay in Trenton focused heavily on revisiting the
dual-capital plan. Delegates like John Jay expressed concerns over the
instability and inefficiencies of alternating capitals. During the session, on
December 6, Virginia Delegate James Monroe wrote to James Madison
stating:
Mr. Jay is here & will I understand accept the office
of foreign affrs. upon condition Congress will establish themselves at any one
place.[7]
On December 20, 1784, Rhode Island delegate David Howell
introduced a motion, which was seconded by John Jay, to overturn the dual-capital arrangement.
Congress resolved:
Resolved: That it is expedient the Congress proceed to
take measures for procuring suitable buildings to be erected for their
accommodation. [Printed Journals add: "And that a sum not exceeding
dollars be and they are hereby appropriated for the payment of the expence of
erecting such buildings."]
Resolved: (by nine states) That a sum not exceeding one hundred thousand dollars be appropriated for the payment of the expence of erecting such buildings; provided always, that hotels or dwelling-houses for the members of Congress representing the different States, shall not be understood as included in the above appropriation. [Note 2: 2 This paragraph, in the writing of Richard Henry Lee, is in the Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 36, II, folio 477.]."[8]
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| Proposed National Capitol Site in Trenton original Manuscript Map 1784 - Historic.us |
The following day, Congress repealed its previous
resolutions mandating alternate residences and agreed to establish a single
permanent federal district near the falls of the Delaware River. Meanwhile,
Congress selected New York City as the temporary seat of government, resolving:
“A motion was made by Mr. [Charles] Pinckney, seconded by
Mr. [John] Jay, That it is expedient Congress should determine on a place, at
which they will continue to sit until proper accommodations in a federal town
shall be erected, and that the subsisting resolutions respecting the alternate
temporary residence of Congress at Trenton and Annapolis, be repealed.
Resolved, That it is expedient Congress should determine on
a place at which they will continue to sit, until public buildings for their
proper accommodations in a foederal town shall be erected.
Resolved, That Congress will not adjourn from this place
until they shall have named the place near the falls of Trenton at which the
federal buildings mentioned in the resolution of yesterday shall be fixed and
ascertained and Commissioners for erecting the same be appointed. [Note
1: 1 This motion, in the writing of John Jay, is in the Papers of the
Continental Congress, No. 36, II, folio 487.]”[9]
This marked the end of the dual-capital experiment and
reaffirmed the need for centralized governance and John Jay accepted the position as
Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Jay took the oath of office
before Justice Isaac Smith of the New Jersey Supreme Court
What follows is the Certification of John Jay’s Oath as
Secretary for Foreign Affairs --- Trenton,
21 December 1784.
“Be it remembered that on twenty first day
of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred
and eighty-four at Trenton in the State of New Jersey personally
appeared before me Isaac Smith one of the Justices of the supreme Court of said
State John Jay Esquire and took an Oath which I administered to him in the
words following Viz.
“I John Jay do acknowledge the Thirteen United States of
America namely, New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North
Carolina, South Carolina & Georgia, to be free, independent and sovereign
States, and declare that the people thereof owe no allegiance or obedience to
George the third King of Great Britain, and I renounce, refuse, and abjure any
allegiance or obedience to him; and I do Swear that I will, to the utmost of my
power support, maintain, and defend the said United States against the said
King George the third, and his heirs & successors, and his or their
abettors, assistants and adherents; and will Serve the said United States in
the Office of [653page icon] Secretary for Foreign Affairs, which I now hold,
and in any other Office which I may hereafter hold by their appointment, or
under their authority, with fidelity and honor, and according to the best of my
Skill and understanding. So help me God. --
John Jay -- Sworn the Day and Year within written before me Isaac
Smith. [10]
The Critical Decisions of December 23–24, 1784:
Establishing a Temporary and Permanent Capital
On December 23, 1784, Samuel Hardy, seconded by James
Monroe, introduced a motion to amend the location of the proposed permanent
federal capital. The motion sought to replace the existing resolution’s
language, which stated, "on the banks of either side of the Delaware, not
lower than Lamberton, nor more than six miles above it," with "at
Georgetown, on the Potomac." Despite the effort to shift the site southward,
the motion failed decisively, with eight states voting against it and only one
state in favor.[11]
With the permanent capital's location remaining tied to the
Delaware, the delegates turned their attention to selecting a temporary
capital. Proposals for Trenton, Philadelphia, and Newport were debated, but
John Jay and other influential delegates opposed these alternatives. A motion
was finally made by David Howell, seconded by Richard Dobbs Spaight, “to fill
the blank with ‘the city of New York.’” The question was put to a vote, with
yeas and nays recorded as requested by David Howell. The motion was resolved in
the affirmative.[12]
The Ordinance for the Temporary and Permanent Capitals
After settling the debates, Congress finalized and read the
complete ordinance for a third time. The text of the resolution encapsulated
the decisions:
“Be it ordained by the United States in Congress assembled,
that the resolutions of the 20th instant respecting the erecting buildings for
the use of Congress, be carried into effect without delay; that for this
purpose, three commissioners be appointed, with full powers to lay out a
district, of not less than two nor exceeding three miles square, on the banks
of either side of the Delaware, not more than eight miles above or below the
lower falls thereof, for a foederal town; that they be authorised to purchase
the soil, or such part of it as they may judge necessary, to be paid at proper
instalments; to enter into contracts for erecting and completing, in an elegant
manner, a foederal house for the accommodation of Congress, and for the
executive officers thereof; a house for the use of the President of Congress,
and suitable buildings for the residence of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs,
Secretary at War, Secretary of Congress, Secretary of the Marine, and officers
of the Treasury; that the said commissioners be empowered to draw on the
treasury of the United States for a sum not exceeding one hundred thousand
dollars, for the purpose aforesaid; that in choosing a situation for the
buildings, due regard be had to the accommodation of the states, with lots for
houses for the use of their delegates respectively; that on the 24th day of
December instant Congress stand adjourned to meet at the city of New York, on
the eleventh Day of January following, for the dispatch of public business, and
that the sessions of Congress be held at the place last mentioned, until the
buildings aforesaid shall be ready for their reception” .[13]
The vote on this critical ordinance revealed regional
divisions: 7 states voted in favor, Pennsylvania opposed, Georgia’s delegation
was split, and New Hampshire, represented by a single delegate, also voted yes.[14]
Elbridge Gerry's Perspective on the Decisions
Elbridge Gerry, a key figure in these debates, expressed his
views in a letter to James Warren dated December 23, 1784, providing
insights into the day’s events:
“There was a stronger party formed against us than I
remember to have seen, but I think it will subside and matters be in good train
again. We have carried two great points to-day by passing an ordinance, 1st. to
appoint three commissioners to lay out a district on the branch of either side
of the Delaware, within eight miles of this place, to purchase the soil and
enter into contracts for erecting suitable buildings. 2dly. To adjourn to
New-York and reside there until suitable buildings are prepared. This I
consider a fortunate affair in every respect but one. It is so disagreeable to
our worthy secretary [Charles Thomson] that there is reason to apprehend he
will resign his appointment.
We have been so happy also as to remove some objections on
the part of Mr. Jay to the acceptance of his office, and he yesterday took the
oaths and entered on the business of his department”.[15]
Final Acts Before Adjournment
On December 24, 1784, Congress certified the selection of
judges to hear the Massachusetts-New York land claim dispute under Article IX
of the Articles of Confederation. With this procedural matter resolved, the
USCA formally adjourned, declaring:
“To meet at the City of New York, on the 11th day of January
next”.[16]
This decision not only solidified New York City’s role as
the interim capital but also represented a decisive step in shaping the
political geography of the young republic. By affirming a clear path for the
development of a permanent federal capital along the Delaware, Congress
signaled its commitment to creating a central and functional seat of government
that would serve as a unifying force for the nation. The resolutions reflected
the delicate balancing act required to address the competing interests of Northern
and Southern states while fostering collaboration among diverse regional
factions.
U.S. Foreign Secretary John Jay’s influence was pivotal in
these deliberations. His insistence on a stationary residence for government
operations underscored the practical need for centralized administration and
the inefficiencies of alternating capitals. By consolidating legislative
activity in New York City, Congress ensured the stability needed to address
pressing issues, from domestic governance to foreign diplomacy, during a period
of immense national transition.
Furthermore, these resolutions illustrated Congress's
ability to adapt to challenges, prioritizing pragmatic solutions over
idealistic compromises. The commitment to developing a permanent capital near
the Delaware, despite sectional tensions, demonstrated a forward-looking vision
for a unified national identity. At the same time, selecting New York City as
the temporary capital showcased Congress's recognition of the city’s strategic
importance as a political, economic, and cultural hub.
This landmark decision also carried significant implications
for the nation's future governance. It laid the groundwork for the eventual
establishment of a single, purpose-built capital—Washington, D.C.—a concept
that would later be enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. The prioritization of
continuity, regional balance, and administrative functionality during these
debates set a precedent for the centralized authority and long-term planning
that would define the evolving American government.
In essence, the resolutions of December 1784 were more than logistical decisions; they were a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the United States in its formative years. They revealed the foresight of leaders who, even in the face of deep divisions and competing interests, sought to create a framework that would ensure the stability and growth of the nation for generations to come.
USCA Journals Manuscript, December 23, 1784, from the US National Archives
New York Seat of Government vote - United States National Archives
The historic French Arms Tavern, a central venue in Trenton's early history, continued to play a prominent role in the young nation's unfolding story. On January 4, 1785, the tavern was leased to Francis Witt, who renamed it the Blazing Star. Under its new name, the building maintained its significance as a gathering place for important political and social events.
Two years later, the tavern regained the spotlight during the momentous ratification of the United States Constitution. From December 11 to December 18, 1787, the French Arms Tavern—as it was still commonly referred to—hosted the New Jersey ratification convention for the Constitution. Delegates from across the state gathered within its walls to deliberate on the nation’s proposed governing framework.
On December 18, 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the Constitution, a critical step in establishing the foundation of the United States government.
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Account of President elect George Washington dining with Trenton's leading citizens on April 21st, 1789, at the City Tavern, formerly the French Arms, on the southwest corner of Second and King Streets. |
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| Bronze Tablet marking the site where the French Arms Tavern once stood - Historic.us |
By 1836, the evolution of the tavern mirrored Trenton’s growth and modernization. The First Mechanics and Manufacturers Bank purchased the property and demolished the historic structure to make way for a new two-story bank building. While the original tavern no longer stands, its legacy endures. The site is currently occupied by a branch of Wells Fargo, marking the spot where so many pivotal events in the nation's history unfolded.
From its early days as the French Arms Tavern to its final transformation as the City Tavern, this iconic building bore witness to the birth and early years of the United States, serving as a meeting place for the leaders and citizens shaping the nation's future. Its story is an enduring reminder of Trenton’s vital role in the founding of the republic.
Footnotes:
[i1 Journals of the USCA, October 7, 1783.
[2] Ibid October 21, 1783
[3] Ibid October 30, 1783
[4] Ibid, November 4, 1783
[5] Letters of the Delegates, Jay to Thomson, October 20, 1784
[6] Letters of the Delegates, Jay to Thomson, October 20, 1784
[7] Ibid, Monroe to Madison, December 6, 1784
[8] Journals of the USCA, December 20, 1784
[9] Ibid, December 20, 1784
[10] Papers of John Jay; Certification of John Jay’s Oath as Secretary for Foreign Affairs
[11] Journals of the United States in Congress Assembled (JUSCA), December 23, 1784.
[12] Ibid
[13] Ordinance for the Federal Capital, JUSCA, December 23, 1784.
[14] Ibid
[15] Elbridge Gerry to James Warren, December 23, 1784, Letters of Delegates to Congress.
[16] Journals of the United States in Congress Assembled (JUSCA), December 24, 1784
United States Continental Congress French Arms Tavern Legislation:
December 3, 1784 – Friday – Swedish Consul Registered; Troop Redeployment Ordered
- Congress formally registered the commission of Charles Hellstedt as the Swedish consul. This marked a continuation of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with European powers, in this case, Sweden.
- On the same day, Congress ordered the redeployment of troops stationed at Fort Stanwix to West Point, a key military post along the Hudson River. This decision reflected shifting military priorities as the new nation sought to secure its remaining military outposts.
December 7, 1784 – Tuesday – Redeployment Countermanded
- Only days after ordering the redeployment of Fort Stanwix troops, Congress reversed its decision. The troops were instead ordered to move to Fort Rensselaer, another strategic location that was deemed important for securing the frontier. This highlights the fluidity of military planning during this post-war period.
December 8, 1784 – Wednesday – Massachusetts and New York Land Dispute
- Congress received agents from Massachusetts and New York who had assembled to select judges for the resolution of their ongoing land dispute. This conflict involved overlapping territorial claims in the area that would later become western New York. The involvement of Congress in mediating such disputes was one of the key functions envisioned by the Articles of Confederation, ensuring a federal role in resolving interstate conflicts.
December 11, 1784 – Saturday – Motion to Adjourn from Trenton Rejected; Marquis de Lafayette Commended
- A motion was introduced to adjourn Congress from Trenton, possibly due to logistical challenges, but it was rejected, signaling the members' determination to continue their work at the current location.
- Congress also passed a resolution commending the marquis de Lafayette, a French ally who played a significant role in securing American independence. This act of recognition reflected ongoing efforts to maintain strong relations with France and honor key figures in the Revolutionary War.
December 14, 1784 – Tuesday – Election of Treasury Commissioners Postponed; Franklin’s Consular Convention Delayed
- Congress postponed the election of new commissioners for the treasury, a critical delay given the ongoing financial difficulties the country faced. The Confederation government was struggling to manage its debts and secure adequate revenue from the states.
- Benjamin Franklin, the U.S. Minister to France, was instructed to delay signing a consular convention with France. This postponement highlights the delicate nature of negotiations and diplomatic agreements in the post-war period, as the new government sought to carefully navigate international relations.
December 15, 1784 – Wednesday – Spain Closes the Mississippi River
- Congress received official notification from Spain that it had closed the Mississippi River to American navigation. This was a significant blow to western settlers and traders who relied on the river for transporting goods. The closure of the river was a critical issue in U.S.-Spanish relations and underscored ongoing tensions regarding territorial boundaries and access to trade routes.
December 17, 1784 – Friday – Chaplain Elected; Decision to Appoint Minister to Spain
- Congress elected a new chaplain, a customary practice during its sessions, reflecting the continued importance of religion in the public and political life of the time.
- Congress also resolved to appoint a minister to Spain in response to the tensions over the Mississippi River. The appointment of a minister was an important step in addressing the diplomatic challenges with Spain, especially as American settlers moved westward and sought access to key trading routes.
December 20, 1784 – Monday – Overturning of Dual Capital Decision; Capital Buildings Appropriated
- Congress overturned a previous decision to establish two capital locations—one on the banks of the Delaware River and one on the Potomac River. The idea of having alternating capitals was deemed impractical, likely due to logistical and political concerns.
- Instead, Congress appropriated $100,000 for the construction of permanent capital buildings, signifying the commitment to establish a central and stable seat of government for the new nation.
December 23, 1784 – Thursday – Ordinance for Fixing Congressional Residence Adopted
- Congress adopted an ordinance that outlined the process for selecting a permanent residence for the national government. The issue of where to locate the federal capital had been a source of ongoing debate, with various regions and states lobbying to host the seat of government. The ordinance was an attempt to bring clarity to this contentious issue.
December 24, 1784 – Friday – Judges Certified for Massachusetts-New York Land Dispute; Congress Adjourns to New York City
- Congress officially certified the selection of judges to hear the land dispute between Massachusetts and New York. This was a crucial step in resolving the conflict over land claims in western New York, which had become a pressing issue.
- With business for the year concluded, Congress adjourned from Trenton and announced its plan to reconvene in New York City, marking a significant move in the ongoing debate over the permanent location of the federal capital.
For students and teachers of U.S. history, this video features Stanley and Christopher Klos presenting America's Four United Republics Curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Filmed in December 2015, this video is an informal recording by an audience member capturing a presentation attended by approximately 200 students, professors, and guests. To explore the full curriculum, [download it here].
September 5, 1774 | October 22, 1774 | |
October 22, 1774 | October 26, 1774 | |
May 20, 1775 | May 24, 1775 | |
May 25, 1775 | July 1, 1776 |
July 2, 1776 to February 28, 1781
July 2, 1776 | October 29, 1777 | |
November 1, 1777 | December 9, 1778 | |
December 10, 1778 | September 28, 1779 | |
September 29, 1779 | February 28, 1781 |
March 1, 1781 to March 3, 1789
March 1, 1781 | July 6, 1781 | |
July 10, 1781 | Declined Office | |
July 10, 1781 | November 4, 1781 | |
November 5, 1781 | November 3, 1782 | |
November 4, 1782 | November 2, 1783 | |
November 3, 1783 | June 3, 1784 | |
November 30, 1784 | November 22, 1785 | |
November 23, 1785 | June 5, 1786 | |
June 6, 1786 | February 1, 1787 | |
February 2, 1787 | January 21, 1788 | |
January 22, 1788 | January 21, 1789 |
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions
USCA | Session Dates | USCA Convene Date | President(s) |
First | 03-01-1781 to 11-04-1781* | 03-02-1781 | |
Second | 11-05-1781 to 11-03-1782 | 11-05-1781 | |
Third | 11-04-1782 to 11-02-1783 | 11-04-1782 | |
Fourth | 11-03-1783 to 10-31-1784 | 11-03-1783 | |
Fifth | 11-01-1784 to 11-06-1785 | 11-29-1784 | |
Sixth | 11-07-1785 to 11-05-1786 | 11-23-1785 | |
Seventh | 11-06-1786 to 11-04-1787 | 02-02-1787 | |
Eighth | 11-05-1787 to 11-02-1788 | 01-21-1788 | |
Ninth | 11-03-1788 to 03-03-1789** | None | None |
* The Articles of Confederation was ratified by the mandated 13th State on February 2, 1781, and the dated adopted by the Continental Congress to commence the new United States in Congress Assembled government was March 1, 1781. The USCA convened under the Articles of Confederation Constitution on March 2, 1781.** On September 14, 1788, the Eighth United States in Congress Assembled resolved that March 4th, 1789, would be commencement date of the Constitution of 1787's federal government thus dissolving the USCA on March 3rd, 1789.
Philadelphia | Sept. 5, 1774 to Oct. 24, 1774 | |
Philadelphia | May 10, 1775 to Dec. 12, 1776 | |
Baltimore | Dec. 20, 1776 to Feb. 27, 1777 | |
Philadelphia | March 4, 1777 to Sept. 18, 1777 | |
Lancaster | September 27, 1777 | |
York | Sept. 30, 1777 to June 27, 1778 | |
Philadelphia | July 2, 1778 to June 21, 1783 | |
Princeton | June 30, 1783 to Nov. 4, 1783 | |
Annapolis | Nov. 26, 1783 to Aug. 19, 1784 | |
Trenton | Nov. 1, 1784 to Dec. 24, 1784 | |
New York City | Jan. 11, 1785 to Nov. 13, 1788 | |
New York City | October 6, 1788 to March 3,1789 | |
New York City | March 3,1789 to August 12, 1790 | |
Philadelphia | Dec. 6,1790 to May 14, 1800 | |
Washington DC | November 17,1800 to Present |
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