David Crockett_ The Lion of the West - Michael Wallis [124]
The Whigs in Philadelphia definitely knew how to host a shindig worthy of a possible presidential contender. Just days before Crockett’s arrival, the party sponsored what was called a “Jubilee in honor of the triumph of the Whigs of New York in defense of the Constitution and laws.”21 The gala event was held at Powelton, Col. John Hare Powel’s country estate, situated on the west bank of the Schuylkill River near the city waterworks. It was a grand affair carefully planned by a committee of 100 faithful Whigs, who wisely arranged for a moratorium on tolls for the day at the bridges. Stores and factories were closed throughout the city, and as a result more than 60,000 celebrants showed up at the jubilee. Refreshment stands scattered all around the grounds were stocked with barrels of ale and cider, 500 hams, 1,000 beef tongues, and great servings of cheese and bread.22
Some Philadelphia Whigs were still nursing hangovers by the time Crockett arrived. He was met at the wharf by a throng and then whisked in a fancy carriage drawn by four bays to his quarters at the United States Hotel, undoubtedly chosen because it stood just across Chestnut Street from the United States Bank, which had earned the ire of Old Hickory and his followers.
“The Colonel is a ‘wig,’” quipped a newspaper reporter, describing Crockett’s arrival and his attendance at the popular minstrel show Jim Crow.
He has declared himself if so briefly and emphatically…. He was received and followed by a great number of enthusiastic admirers, who roared and shouted with much energy and fervor. When [Crockett] arrived at his hotel, the koon-killer in imitation of Henry Clay, came out upon the portico, bowed graciously, and smiled encouragingly upon the devoted multitude. He did not speak, but there was that in his eye which promised that the colonel would go ahead, and accordingly, after dispatching with western energy, several cups of tea, he proceeded without a sign of trepidation to the Walnut Street theatre to see Jim Crow. The house was full and peal after peal of applause greeted the city’s guest. Jim Crow bowed to Crockett, and Crockett bowed to Crow.23
Jim Crow featured Thomas “Daddy” Rice, the most admired black-face comedian of the day. During his stay, Crockett also was given special tours of the U.S. Mint, the waterworks, the Navy Hospital, and the insane asylum. He gave his stock anti-Jackson speech at several stops, but one of his more rousing addresses was delivered at the newly opened Philadelphia Stock Exchange. A crowd of men in high top hats pushed and shoved for the best vantage point in order to see the famous frontiersman. Crockett rose to give his address and the roar diminished. When he spoke the entire assembly fell silent, each of them eager to hear every word.
“Seven months ago this was the most flourishing country in the world,” Crockett told them.
Look at it now; and what do you see? You behold your commerce suspended your laborers wandering about for employment; your mechanics starving; and above all you see the best currency in the world deranged; And gentlemen, what is all this for? To gratify the will of a superannuated old man; a man whose popularity, like the lightning of heaven, blasts and withers all that comes within its influence! His leading object, in all the mischief he has done, has been to destroy the best monied institution on earth. But, gentlemen, will you submit to this experiment?24
The response was a great cry of “Never! Never!” Everyone present knew that Crockett was, of course, referring to President Jackson. “It is clear that he is fishing for the Presidency,” one newspaper reported.
After meeting with his publishers about more print runs of the autobiography, Crockett departed Philadelphia for New Jersey and New York City, where his Whig handlers afforded him a royal welcome at the train station before escorting him to his plush accommodations at the American Hotel. Crockett’s activities ranged from taking in a ribald burlesque show and delivering a speech at the New