The Viking's Feast: America's Greatest Banquet

A Glimpse into the Greatest Banquet in American History

During a recent trip to Chicago, we discovered one of the most remarkable events in American history: the greatest banquet ever held in the United States. This elite gathering took place thirteen years after the Civil War, in 1879. It was hosted at The Palmer House Hotel, a landmark that has welcomed travelers and hosted events since 1871. Among the attendees were President Ulysses S. Grant and the famous author Mark Twain. It’s fascinating to see how issues from over a century ago still resonate with our modern world.

Potter and Bertha Palmer

Newly married in 1870, millionaire Potter Palmer built the luxurious Palmer House Hotel as a gift for his wife, Bertha Honore Palmer, who was 23 years younger. On September 26, 1871, the hotel opened its doors to guests.

However, just twelve days later, the Great Chicago Fire erupted and burned for forty-eight hours. Three hundred people lost their lives, and 17,000 buildings, including The Palmer House Hotel, were destroyed. Potter Palmer quickly secured a loan of $1.7 million—the largest credit given by a bank at the time—and began plans to rebuild.

By November 1873, the new Palmer House Hotel opened. Designed by architect John M. Van Osdel, it was constructed using brick, iron, and terra cotta and was known as “The World’s Only Fire-Proof Hotel.” This seven-floor hotel was a marvel of luxury, featuring electric light bulbs throughout and telephones in every guest room. It also had a vertical steam lift, one of the first elevators, making it more efficient for both guests and luggage.

High society has long been drawn to The Palmer House Hotel, which has stood for 155 years.

A Royal Wedding and a Lasting Friendship

Less than a year after the hotel reopened, on October 20, 1874, Bertha’s sister, Ida, married Brigadier General Fredrick Dent Grant, the son of President Ulysses S. Grant. The wedding took place at her parents’ home, and the president and First Lady attended. This event marked the beginning of a lasting friendship between the Grants and the Palmers.

Who Was President Ulysses S. Grant?

Ulysses S. Grant was a talented horseman and artist who initially had no desire for a military career. He planned to serve his four-year stint at West Point and then pursue another path. However, he remained in the military to support his family of four children.

Grant’s relationship with his in-laws was complicated. During a time of economic hardship, they housed him and his family. He was assigned William Jones, a slave, whom he eventually freed, much to the dismay of his father-in-law, who saw this as an expensive mistake.

During the Civil War, Grant led troops in twelve battles from 1861 to 1865, while his wife, Julia, and their children awaited news of him. After the war, Grant ran for president under the slogan “Let Us Have Peace,” serving from 1869 to 1877. Though his presidency was marred by corruption scandals, he remained a national hero during his lifetime.

Following his presidency, Grant embarked on a world tour and made his final stop in Chicago in 1879 to visit his son, Fredrick, and daughter-in-law, Ida.

The Greatest Banquet in American History

Bertha Palmer, recognizing the significance of Grant’s visit, organized the largest gala of its time to honor Civil War heroes like William Sherman and Phillip Sheridan. She invited 500 dignitaries and used gold-etched china. Potter Palmer asked his friend, Mark Twain, to serve as master of ceremonies.

Eighteen pieces of gold-trimmed French Havilland china and Austrian crystal shimmered at each place setting. The menu featured Blue Point oysters, Sauterne, venison, chicken, buffalo steaks with truffle sauce, followed by Cognac, celery, coffee, and cigars.

Mark Twain, the renowned author and friend of the Palmers, served as the emcee. He delivered over 24 toasts, using a specially made oversized beer stein that was refilled multiple times.

At the banquet, Twain’s massive stein was refilled more than once!

The Palmer House Hotel Today

The Palmer House Hotel was built as a gift of love and continues to embody elegance as a century-old Chicago landmark. Today, guests can sit in the highbacked lobby chairs, a prized commodity. Wait staff move efficiently through the space, serving guests with picturesque plates.

In the morning, staff polish railings and baseboards. With over 1,600 rooms, the cleaning regime is extensive. One maid shared, “I clean thirteen rooms a day.” Her pride was evident as she peered over the fluffy white towels stacked atop her cart like a Dr. Seuss vehicle.

The Empire Room and More

The Empire Room has hosted legendary performers from 1932 to 1975, including Louie Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald. More recently, the hotel has been featured in television shows and movies such as Curly Sue and Miracle on 34th Street.

Since the Great Banquet in 1879, every U.S. president except George W. Bush has stayed at the Palmer House Hotel. Many have also held campaign events there.

I appreciate Chuck for spoiling me with a trip to The Palmer House Hotel! What an experience! Being able to get a sneak peek into the Greatest Banquet in American History was a treat. I marveled at the care taken to preserve this rich history. Thank you for coming along!

Chuck and Martha Hayden, known as The Viking and Poppins, enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. They share their journeys with others, offering independent views of places, people, and cultures around the world. Visit and follow them on their website and social media accounts.