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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual
collections.
Collection: President, Office of the: Presidential
Briefing Papers: Records, 1981-1989
Folder Title:02/21/1983 (Case File: 121721)
Box: 26
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
inventories visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at:
[email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
WITHDRAWAL SHEET
Ronald Reagan Library
Collection Name PRESIDENT, OFFICE OF THE: PRESIDENTIAL BRIEFING
Withdrawer
PAPERS
RBW
1/2/2008
File Folder
02/21/1983 (CASEFILE 121721)
FOIA
S07-0077/01
Box Number
151
DOC Doc Type
Document Description
No of Doc Date Restrictions
NO
Pages
1
SCHEDULE OF THE PRESIDENT [PG 1, PARTIAL]
1 2/18/1983
B7(C)
2
DIAGRAM
RE MADISON HOTEL AND SOCIETY OF
4
2/21/1983
B2
B7(E)
THE CINCINNATI
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
B-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
B-2 Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
B-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
B-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
B-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
B-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
B-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
B-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.
fogg 101
ID # 121721
WHITE HOUSE
OFFICE OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT
WORKSHEET
X-MEDIA
H-INTERNAL
Name of Document: BRIEFING PAPERS
FOR PRESIDENTS
Subject Codes:
SCHEDULED
APPOINTMENTS FOR
FEB2183
PR 007 - 01 1
1) Subject: Schedule of the President for
TR 001 -
A) National Review magazine's reception
PU
-
for John MCLAUGALIN at the
50 004 -
Madison Hotel
1
B) Receptional the anderson House
PP 009 - 01
sponoored by the Society J
PR 014 - 12
Cincinnati to accept
-
hopprary Society membership in The
-
I
-
-
-
-
I
-
I
-
-
ROUTE TO:
ACTION
DISPOSITION
Office/Agency
(Staff Name)
Action
Tracking Date
Type of
Completion Date
Code
YY/MM/DD
Response
Code
YY/MM/DD
RMHENL
RSZ
C
Referral Note:
THE SCHEDULE OF
PRESIDENT RONALD REAGAN
THE PRESIDENT'S SCHEDULE
Monday, February 21, 1983
Washington's Birthday Holiday
AM and
Afternoon
Personal Time
Residence
5:30 pm
Depart for Madison Hotel for
South Grounds
National Review Reception
(Henkel/Gergen)
(TAB A)
(remarks attached)
6:35 pm
Depart Madison Hotel for Reception
Anderson
for Society of Cincinnati
House
(Henkel)
(TAB B)
(remarks attached)
7:20 pm
Return White House
South Grounds
UNP 2/18/83
4:00 pm
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
SCHEDULE OF THE PRESIDENT
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1983
EVENTS:
1) National Review Reception in honor of John McLaughlin
2) Society of the Cincinnati Reception
DRESS:
Men's Business Suit
WEATHER: High 30's; chance of showers
5:25 p.m.
Proceed to motorcade for boarding.
5:30 p.m.
Depart en route Madison Hotel.
Drive Time: 5 mins. In Limo: J. Baker
5:35 p.m.
Arrive Madison Hotel for National Review Reception in
honor of John McLaughlin.
Proceed to holding room.
Met by:
Marshall B. Coyne, Proprietor,
Madison Hotel
William F. Buckley, Jr., Editor,
National Review
John McLaughlin, Executive Editor,
National Review
Proceed to Dolley Madison Room.
5:40 p.m.
Arrive Dolley Madison Room, proceed to shake hands along
rope line en route dais.
Note: Guests will be greeted along rope line.
6:00 p.m. Program begins.
6:15 p.m. Mr. Buckley makes brief remarks and introduces
Mr. McLaughlin.
Mr. McLaughlin makes brief remarks and
introduction.
6:20 p.m.
Brief remarks. - Open Press Coverage.
6:25 p.m.
Conclude remarks and depart en route motorcade.
6:30 p.m.
Depart Madison Hotel en route Anderson House.
Drive Time: 5 mins. In Limo: J. Baker
6:35 p.m.
Arrive Anderson House and proceed inside.
Met by:
John B. du Mont, President General, Society of
the Cincinnati.
Clement Conger, Curator, The White House
6:40 p.m.
Proceed to Ballroom and take seat.
Mr. du Mont makes remarks and presents
Society's Eagle Pin and Certificate.
Official Photographer.
6:50 p.m.
Brief remarks. - Official Photographer.
6:55 p.m.
Conclude remarks and proceed to Second Floor for
receiving line. - Official Photographer.
7:10 p.m.
Conclude receiving line and depart en route motorcade.
7:15 p.m.
Depart en route The White House.
Drive Time: 5 mins. In Limo: J. Baker.
7:20 p.m.
Arrive The White House.
A
WITHDRAWAL SHEET
Ronald Reagan Library
Collection Name
Withdrawer
PRESIDENT, OFFICE OF THE: PRESIDENTIAL BRIEFING
RB 1/2/2008
PAPERS
W
File Folder
FOIA
02/21/1983 (CASEFILE 121721)
S07-0077/01
Box Number
151
DOC Document Type
No of Doc Date Restric-
NO
Document Description
pages
tions
1
SCHEDULE
1 2/18/1983 B7(C)
OF THE PRESIDENT [PG 1, PARTIAL]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
B-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
B-2 Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
B-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
B-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
B-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
B-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
B-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
B-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTO.N
SCHEDULE OF THE PRESIDENT
FOR
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1983
EVENTS: (1) National Review Reception in honor of John McLaughlin
(2) Society of the Cincinnati Reception
THE PRESIDENT'S PARTICIPATION
WEATHER
(1) Brief Remarks
High 30's
(2) Brief Remarks
Chance of Showers
Induction to Honorary Membership
Receiving line
DRESS
Men's Business Suit
ADVANCE
National Review Reception
Society of the Cincinnati
HOOLEY, JIM
STAFF
TERRY, GREY
STAFF
HUNTSMAN, JON
PRESS
KUONEN. ROCKY
PRESS
37c
USSS
B7c
USSS
TYRRELL, RICK
WHCA
MITCHELL, BOB
WHCA
CONTACT
Presidential Advance Office: 456-7665
2/18/83 3:30 p.m.
Monday, February 21, 1983
Page 1
GUEST AND STAFF INSTRUCTIONS
5:20 p.m.
Proceed to motorcade and board.
5:25 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT proceeds to motorcade for boarding.
5:30 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT departs The White House en route
the Madison Hotel.
Drive Time: 5 mins.
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS
Lead
Spare
L. Speakes
D. Fischer
Limo
THE PRESIDENT
J. Baker
Follow-up
Control
M. Deaver
Dr. D. Ruge
Military Aide
Support
E. Hickey
E. Rollins
W. Henkel
Ofcl. Photogr.
Staff I
M. Weinberg
Medic
Press Van I
Press Van II
J. Huntsman
WHCA
Ambulance
Tail
5:35 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT arrives the Madison Hotel, Underground
Garage Entrance and proceeds to elevator en route
second floor.
See Tab A for arrival diagram.
02/18/83 3:30 p.m.
Monday, February 21, 1983
Page 2
OPEN PRESS COVERAGE (outside)
CLOSED ARRIVAL
STAFF INSTRUCTIONS
Staff manifested through Support
accompany THE PRESIDENT. All other
staff and guests should hold for the
PRESIDENT to clear the area before
proceeding.
THE PRESIDENT arrives second floor and proceeds to
holding room.
Met by:
Marshall B. Coyne, Proprietor, Madison
Hotel
William F. Buckley, Jr., Editor,
National Review
John McLaughlin, Executive Editor,
National Review
THE PRESIDENT, escorted by Mr. Buckley and Mr.
McLaughlin, proceeds to Dolley Madison Room.
See Tab B for diagram.
STAFF INSTRUCTIONS
Escorted to staff viewing area.
5:40 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT arrives Dolley Madison Room and
proceeds to shake hands with guests along rope line.
OPEN PRESS COVERAGE
6:00 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT, accompanied by Mr. Buckley and Mr.
McLaughlin, proceeds to dais and remains standing.
Program begins.
6:15 p.m.
Mr. Buckley makes brief remarks
and introduces Mr. McLaughlin .
Mr. McLaughlin makes brief remarks
and introduces THE PRESIDENT.
6:20 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT makes brief remarks.
OPEN PRESS COVERAGE
2/18/83 3:30 p.m.
Monday, February 21, 1983
Page 3
6:25 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT concludes remarks and departs Dolley
Madison Room en route motorcade for boarding.
STAFF INSTRUCTIONS
Proceed to motorcade and board.
6:30 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT departs Madison Hotel en route
Anderson House, 2118 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Drive Time: 5 mins.
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS
Same as on arrival with exception of
E. Rollins to remain at Madison Hotel.
6:35 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT arrives Anderson House, Massachusetts
Avenue entrance.
Met by:
John B. du Mont, President General,
The Society of the Cincinnati
Clemont Conger, Curator, The White House
See Tab C for arrival diagram.
OPEN PRESS COVERAGE (outside)
CLOSED ARRIVAL
THE PRESIDENT, escorted by Mr. du Mont, proceeds to
Ballroom entryway.
Captain Henry Watts, Society Marshal
announces THE PRESIDENT.
STAFF INSTRUCTIONS
Staff manifested through Support
accompany THE PRESIDENT. All other
staff hold for THE PRESIDENT to
clear the area.
6:40 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT, escorted by Mr. du Mont, proceeds to
dais and takes seat.
Mr. du Mont makes brief remarks and
presents THE PRESIDENT with Society's
Eagle Pin and Diploma.
OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER ONLY
2/18/83 3:30 p.m.
Monday, February 21, 1983
Page 4
THE PRESIDENT makes brief remarks.
6:55 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT, escorted by Mr. du Mont, proceeds
to "Second Floor Drawing Room for receiving line.
OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHER ONLY
See Tab D for diagram.
7:10 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT, escorted by Mr. du Mont, proceeds
en route motorcade.
7:15 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT departs en route The White House.
Drive Time: 5 mins.
MOTORCADE ASSIGNMENTS
Same as on arrival.
7:20 p.m.
THE PRESIDENT arrives The White House.
2/18/83 3:30 p.m.
WITHDRAWAL SHEET
Ronald Reagan Library
Collection Name
Withdrawer
PRESIDENT, OFFICE OF THE: PRESIDENTIAL BRIEFING
RB 1/2/2008
PAPERS
W
File Folder
FOIA
02/21/1983 (CASEFILE 121721)
S07-0077/01
Box Number
151
DOC Document Type
No of Doc Date Restric-
NO Document Description
pages
tions
2
DIAGRAM
4 2/21/1983 B2
RE MADISON HOTEL AND SOCIETY OF THE
B7(E)
CINCINNATI
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
B-1 National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
B-2 Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
B-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
B-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
B-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
B-7 Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
B-8 Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
B-9 Release would disclose geological or geophysical information concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of gift.
(Bakshian)
February 19, 1983
8:00 a.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: NATIONAL REVIEW RECEPTION
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1983
Thank you, John McLaughlin, NR's man in Washington. It's a
pleasure for me to be here, and to see you looking so well. I
can't tell you how happy I am to find out that there really is a
life after death for former White House speechwriters.
Today we celebrate Washington's birthday, and I can't think
of a more appropriate occasion to celebrate National Review's
heightened profile in the Nation's capital. For if George
Washington was the father of his country, NR has been the father
of the American conservative intellectual movement. And it's
only fitting that, at a time when conservative issues and
conservative philosophy are finally setting the terms of debate
in the halls of government, NR has come to Washington in a big
way.
I see a lot of friends in this room tonight and I hope I'll
have a chance to say a personal hello to many of you before I
leave. But before I go any further, I just have to say a few
words about three people who are very special to me, and to NR.
Ladies first. There's a person here tonight who is
respected and beloved by everyone who's ever had any dealings
with NR. Her official title is Managing Editor, but I always
think of Priscilla Buckley -- and this is with all due respect to
Marlon Brando -- as the "Godmother" of National Review.
Page 2
Priscilla, I hope we can count on you to keep the East
35th Street Irregulars in fighting trim for many more years to
come.
And then there's my old friend, Bill Rusher. When he's not
toying with the idea of starting a third party, he has always
been a tireless and very valued supporter. I think all of us who
follow his column, and who remember his many appearances on "The
Advocates," appreciate how much the conservative cause owes to
this energetic and articulate champion of the principles we
believe in so deeply. Bill, congratulations on your fine work as
a conservative leader, and your outstanding service as NR's
publisher.
Finally, I want to say just a word or two about your editor,
Bill Buckley. And, unlike Bill, I'll try to keep those words to
just a syllable or two apiece. I think you know that National
Review is my favorite magazine. I've even paid it the ultimate
compliment of commandeering two of your long-time contributors,
Aram Bakshian and Tony Dolan, for my White House staff. NR isn't
my favorite only because it's fought the good fight so long and
so well -- although that would be reason enough. It's my
favorite because it is splendidly written, brilliantly edited,
and a pleasure to read. In fact, I honestly believe that even if
I were to suffer a severe head injury -- or convert to liberalism
for some other reason -- NR would still be my favorite magazine
because of the wit, the charm, and the intellectual quality of
its contents.
Page 3
There is one problem, though, Bill, that I thought you
should know about. It's all this talk about your being an aloof,
insensitive, and out-of-touch editor. People are saying that you
spend too much time away from New York. They're also saying that
you're being pushed around by your staff. And I understand that
there's a new button on the market: "Let Buckley Be Buckley."
Some people even question whether you're going to seek another
term.
Now, of course, I don't believe a word of this myself -- but
let me give you one piece of friendly advice. Bill, I think it
would be a good idea for you to make a definite statement about
your intentions sometime before Labor Day.
Personally, I hope you'll stay the course.
But this is a party, not a political rally, and I think I
addressed most of the substantive issues on everyone's mind last
Friday at the Conservative Political Action Conference. By the
way, has anyone seen any poll results for this year's conference
yet?
Let me just close by saying a heartfelt thank you, National
Review, for all you've done for the values we share -- and for
sending reinforcements to Washington at just the right moment. I
know that your heightened presence here will be an aid and an
inspiration to all of us in the movement in the years ahead.
And, just by being here, you will help to make the Nation's
Capital a little less of a puzzle palace and a little more of
"our town. "
So, thank you all, and God bless you.
B
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 18, 1983
MEETING WITH THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
Monday, February 21, 1983
Anderson House, 2118 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
6:35 PM
FROM: Clem Conger, The White House Curator and member
of the Society
I. PURPOSE
To accept honorary membership in the Society and to deliver
George Washington birthday remarks
II. BACKGROUND
Statement attached explaining the background of the Society.
III. PARTICIPANTS
Mr. John Sanderson du Mont, President General, The Society of
Cincinnati
Officers of the state societies and wives
The Ambassador of France to the United States
Total - 120 persons
IV. PRESS PLAN
No press coverage
V.
SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
Upon arrival at Anderson House you will be greeted by
Clem Conger, who will introduce Mr. John du Mont, President
General of the Society to you. Mr. du Mont will conduct
you to the Great Hall. Mr. du Mont will make remarks and
present to you the eagle emblem of the Society and a
diploma of membership in the Society.
You will respond with your remarks.
Immediately upon conclusion of remarks, Mr. du Mont will
escort you to the drawing room on the second floor and
form a receiving line. Mr. du Mont will introduce the
members and their wives. Then you will withdraw.
Attachments: 1. Statement on origins of the Society
2. Questions and answers about the Society
3. Mr. du Mont's remarks
4. Your remarks
5. List of invited guests
BRIEF STATEMENT ON THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
The Society of the Cincinnati is a perpetual body
composed of lineal male descendants of commissioned officers
who served in the Continental American Army or Navy during
the Revolution, 1775-1783. At present it has about 3000
members. The purposes of the Society among others are to
perpetuate among descendants the cordial affection that
existed among the founders; to preserve inviolate those
exalted rights and liberties of human nature for which the
founders fought and bled and without which the high rank of
a rational being is a curse instead of a blessing.
The Society was established in 1783 by a group of
officers who served with Washington in the Revolution. The
Society is organized into fourteen self-governing State
Societies, one each in each of the original thirteen states
plus France. George Washington was the first President
General and held that office 16 years until he died in 1799.
The membership badge (eagle of the Great Seal) was
designed by Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant who later laid out
the City of Washington.
As the Continental army was preparing to disband in
1783, many were struck by the parallels between George
Washington, the farmer of Mount Vernon, and the life of the
distinguished Roman, Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus.
In ancient
Rome a civil commotion disturbed the State. A delegation
was sent to Cincinnatus, who had retired from public life to
his farm. Putting on the robes of high office he returned
to the city, quelled the disturbances and again retired to
his farm. Again troubles broke out with Rome's enemies.
Invested by the Senate a second time as Dictator, Cincinnatus
routed Rome's enemies, captured their stronghold, distributed
the spoils to his soldiers and for a second time retired to
his life as a farmer, refusing all honors and awards.
The Society of the Cincinnati was so-called therefore
to symbolize the fact that not only Washington but all his
officers were about to put aside the sword to return to
their lives as private citizens of the new Republic.
The Anderson House is named for Larz Anderson, noted
American diplomat who built the great house in 1905 designed
after a small palace in Florence, Italy. Anderson, a member
of the Society used it for international entertaining. He
willed it to the Society. The house has occasionally been
used by foreign Chiefs of State for return dinners for
American Presidents.
Q. What is the Society of the Cincinnati?
by General Henry Knox, Washington's
(Line) American Army or Navy, or
French help, for which the Original
Chief of Artillery, who suggested a
with the French forces under Rocham-
Members of the Society were deeply
A. The Society of the Cincinnati is a
fraternal patriotic organization of the
beau and DeGrasse.
grateful.
perpetual body composed of lineal
officers who were about to be de-
male descendants of commissioned
mobilized.
Qualifications were:
An invitation to join the Society was
officers who served in the regular
accordingly extended to French Of-
a. Service to the end of the war as
(Continental) American Army or Navy
The idea was considered further in
ficers in Rochambeau's army and
an officer with a Line (as dis-
during the Revolution, 1775-1783.
May by the officers at the New
DeGrasse's fleet. Many of these men
tinguished from a Militia or
At present (1979) it has about 2900
Windsor Cantonment on the west
joined together to form the French
bank of the Hudson River who devel-
State) regiment.
members.
Society in 1784 under the patronage
oped a charter (called the Institution)
b. Resignation with honor after a
of the King, Louis XVI. This Society
Q. What does it do?
for the new Society and sent it for
minimum of three years of
was destroyed by the French Revo-
A. It exists for the following purposes:
approval to each of the 13 original
service.
lution in 1789 and the subsequent
states. By the end of 1783 each state
Reign of Terror in which a large
a. To perpetuate, among their
c. Being rendered supernumerary
had adopted it and had formed its own
number of French Original Members
descendants, the cordial affection
or honorably discharged after
State Society.
lost their lives. After nearly a century
that existed among the founders.
three years of service.
and a half, the French Society was
Q. How is it organized?
b. To promote and cherish, between
About 2400 officers joined as Original
again re-constituted and accepted as
the respective states, that union
A. Into 14 self-governing State Societies
Members.
the 14th State Society in 1925. It now
and national honor so essential
(one of which is in France) united in
has more than 200 members.
to their happiness and future
a General Society whose headquarters
Q. What are present membership require-
ments?
Q. Whence comes the name?
dignity.
is Anderson House. George Washing-
ton was chosen first President General
A. Every Original Member, as well as
A. Our ancestors were classical scholars,
C. To preserve inviolate those
and held that office 16 years until his
other officers who could have become
much better versed in Greek and
exalted rights and liberties of
death in 1799. Alexander Hamilton
Original Members but for one reason
Roman history than we are today.
human nature for which the
became the second President General
or another did not join the Society,
As the army was preparing to disband
founders fought and bled and
for the next five years.
can be represented in the Society
in 1783, many, were struck by the
without which the high rank of
A membership badge was designed
today by a descendant. The Society
parallels between George Washington,
a rational being is a curse instead
also accepts descendants of officers
the farmer of Mount Vernon, and the
of a blessing.
for the Society by Major Pierre Charles
who were killed in battle or died in
life of the distinguished Roman,
L'Enfant who later laid out the city of
d. To support educational, cultural
Washington. The colors, blue and
service. While rules differ slightly
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus.
and literary activities that pro-
white, were chosen for the Society to
among the various State Societies,
In ancient times, when Rome was
mote the purposes of the Society
symbolize the association between
generally membership passes to the
governed by Tribunes of the People,
and the ideals of liberty and
America and her Revolutionary ally,
eldest son of the eldest son according
civil commotion disturbed the State
constitutional government.
France. An engraving of the insignia
to the rule of primogeniture. Lacking
and the Senate resolved to appoint
designed by L'Enfant is reproduced
such an individual, a collateral male
a Dictator. A delegation was sent to
Q. When and by whom was it established?
on the front of this brochure.
descendant, if properly qualified,
Cincinnatus, who had retired from
may take up the membership.
A. In 1783 by a group of officers who had
public life to his farm. They found him
Q. Who was entitled to become an Orig-
served with Washington through the
Q. How do the French enter the picture?
at the plow, dressed as a peasant.
inal Member?
Revolution. The first proposal for
Putting on the robes of high office he
A. Only those officers who had served a
A. A clear-cut victory could not have been
some kind of permanent union among
returned to the city, quelled the distur-
achieved in the Revolution without
the officers was made on April 15, 1783
minimum period with the regular
bances and again retired to his farm.
Again troubles broke out this time war
Q. Why is this building called Anderson
Hoppner, Raeburn and Reynolds.
with Rome's enemies, the Aequi and
House?
In the glittering French Salon is a
The Society of the Cincinnati
the Volsei, whose armies had sur-
A. Because it was completed in 1905,
forest of "Jade Trees" from China
and its
rounded Rome's forces and threatened
after designs by the firm of Little and
and Japan. Flemish tapestries of the
to force capitulation. Invested by the
Brown, Boston, as a private residence
16th Century, French and Italian
Headquarters
Senate a second time as Dictator,
for Mr. and Mrs. Larz Anderson.
religous paintings, and numerous
ANDERSON HOUSE
Cincinnatus routed Rome's enemies,
Mr. Anderson was a career diplomat
oriental art objects are displayed in
captured their stronghold, distributed
and United States Ambassador to
the Long Gallery and in the State
the spoils to his soldiers and for a
Japan, 1912-1913. He was a member
Dining Room.
second time retired to his life as a
of the Society for 43 years and always
The Harold Leonard Stewart Memorial
farmer, refusing all honors and a-
deeply interested in it. After his death
Library, open to the public weekdays
wards.
Mrs. Anderson gave the house to the
10-4, houses a 10,000-volume reference
Society in 1938 for a permanent head-
collection on the American Revolution.
The Society of the Cincinnati was
quarters.
so-called therefore to symbolize the
fact that not only Washington but all
Q. Is Anderson House more than a head-
his officers were about to put aside the
quarters?
1783
sword to return to their lives as private
A. Yes. It is a well-known Washington
citizens of the new Republic.
landmark and one of the few remaining
examples of the great town residences
A Few Questions and Answers
The medallion of the Society insignia
of a bygone day. Additionally, it is
today depicts Cincinnatus meeting
an Historic House Museum on the
the Senators at his plough.
National Register of Historic Places
and a national museum of relics of the
American Revolution. Among the
Q. What connection does Cincinnati,
more interesting objects to be seen
Ohio, have with the Society?
on the first floor of the house are
portraits of founding members of the
A. Cincinnati, in 1790 a small settlement
Society by Gilbert Stuart, George
on a bend of the Ohio River, was
Catlin, Ezra Ames and other early
named after the Society by Major
American painters. There are also
General Arthur St. Clair, an Original
orderly books, personal letters and
Member of the Society from Pennsyl-
manuscripts, as well as medals, swords,
vania and first Governor of the
glass, silver and china of historic
Northwest Territory. He was inspired
importance.
to do this because a large number of
The second floor is still furnished
Anderson House,
other Original Members had settled
largely as it was in the years the house
Headquarters and Museum
there with their families at the con-
was occupied by Mr. and Mrs.
The Society of the Cincinnati
Washington, DC
clusion of the Revolution. The State
Anderson (1905-1937). In the Drawing
2118 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
1981
of Ohio was later created out of the
Room are 18th Century paintings,
Washington, D.C. 20008
Northwest Territory in 1803.
including examples of the work of
Telephone: (202) 785-2040
1783
THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
JOHN SANDERSON DU MONT, President General
BRIMSTONE FARM
HANCOCK, NEW HAMPSHIRE 03449
The President of the United States, addenda
PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES WHO HAVE BEEN MEMBERS:
George Washington, Original
James Monroe, Original
Andrew Jackson, Honorary
Zachary Taylor, Honorary
Franklin Pierce, Hereditary
James Buchanan, Honorary
Benjamin Harrison, Honorary
Ulysses Grant, Honorary
William McKinley, Honorary
Theodore Roosevelt, Honorary
Grover Cleveland, Honorary
William H. Taft, Honorary
Woodrow Wilson, Honorary
Warren G. Harding, Honorary
Franklin D. Roosevelt, Honorary
Harry S. Truman, Honorary
SIGNERS OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE WHO BECAME MEMBERS OF
THE SOCIETY:
William Floyd
Lewis Morris
Robert Morris
Benjamin Franklin
Thomas McKean
William Paca
Charles Carroll
Benjamin Harrison
James Wilson
1783
THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
JOHN SANDERSON DU MONT, President General
BRIMSTONE FARM
HANCOCK. NEW HAMPSHIRE 03449
Induction of President Ronald Reagan as Honorary Member of The
Society of the Cincinnati at Anderson House, Washington, DC,
February 21, 1983.
Introduction by John Sanderson du Mont, President General:
Mr. President, in a very short outline I'd like to tell
you just a little bit about The Society of the Cincinnati; how it
concerns you particularly, and how it concerns all patriotic
Americans. I say "patriotic Americans" because you and I believe
patriotism still lives in America.
Our Society was most probably the brain child of Major
General Henry Knox, Washington's Chief of Artillery, later aided
by Generals von Steuben and Heath.
It derives its name from the 5th century B.C. Roman
Senator, Cincinnatus, who left his farm and plow to save Rome
from the invaders and then immediately resigned his dictatorship
and returned to his farm, much the way our ancestors did.
You have read the famous "Immutable Principles" of the
Society which were adopted in May of 1783 when the organization
was formed--the purpose being to preserve friendships made by the
officers over eight long, hard and gruelling years of war against
the greatest military and naval power on the face of the earth--
which they defeated.
Each officer was to pledge one month's pay in rank to
a fund that was to provide for the widows and orphans of fellow
officers of the Continental Army, killed in the war. It was to
comprise thirteen State Societies from the thirteen original
states, plus France.
But was there another purpose? Perhaps we will never
know, but only shortly before, the calm hand of General Washington
had quelled a possible rebellion against the Continental Congress
by many of these same officers who had received no pay--some for
as long as four years--and for which Congress failed to provide,
as they failed to provide for widows and orphans of the officers.
Washington deftly laid the "Newburgh Resolves" to rest.
1783
THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
JOHN SANDERSON DU MONT, President General
BRIMSTONE FARM
HANCOCK. NEW HAMPSHIRE 03449
-2-
And beyond this, the Society was to be hereditary, based
on the old English rule of primogeniture. This rule brought the
liberal element, who had not fought in the war, out in force. Does
this sound familiar, Mr. President?
Some prominent names such as Jefferson, John Adams and
Benjamin Franklin vehemently opposed the Society, saying that
the officers were creating an "hereditary aristocracy" in America
and causing enough concern to have Washington give second thoughts
to his acceptance of the first President General's office. Bear in
mind he accepted this office six years before he became the first
President of the United States.
But in time opposition waned--our ancestors "stayed the
course" as you might put it--and to give proof to those stalwart
principles, Benjamin Franklin gladly accepted an honorary membership,
for the "hereditary aristocracy" never materialized.
Our gallant French allies eagerly accepted membership when
it was approved by King Louis the 16th and the officers of the French
Navy presented President General Washington with this magnificent
diamond Eagle, perhaps America's most historic and valuable emblem,
designed by l'Enfant, which you see me wearing as have all Presidents
General of the Society.
As time progressed, our members, early representing a strong
political influence, were instrumental in forming the glorious
American government as we know it today.
Over the years the history of our "One Society of Friends"
contributed through its membership to their country and you see
before you, some of their direct descendants, many of whom fought
for their country in recent years--and who are STILL patriots!
In the late 1800's Congress approved a protocol that allowed
the officers of the General Society precedence at historical gather-
ings, directly behind the Governors of the States. I am only sorry
that this protocol was not observed at the Yorktown celebration in
1981, but I am pleased to say that the French did not forget us.
1783
THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI
JOHN SANDERSON DU MONT, President General
BRIMSTONE FARM
HANCOCK. NEW HAMPSHIRE 03449
-3-
Many famous and prominent Americans and French have been
members over the years, including sixteen presidents of the United
States, but I won't bore you with listing all the names. Suffice it
to say we were as proud of them as they were of their membership.
One prominent member was Sir Winston Churchill and while
his father was Lord Randolph Churchill, his mother was the American,
Jennie Jerome and through her he had an American Revolutionary
ancestor. On becoming a member of the Society, his marvelous wit
came again to the fore when he said: "I am in the strange position
of having fought on both sides in the war between us and we."
Now I ask you, President Ronald Reagan, to stand and become
the 17th President of the United States to wear the Eagle of The
Society of the Cincinnati. We recognize and honor a great American
patriot, who in turn, honors us.
The Society of the Cincinnati
Organized at the Cantonments on the Hudson, New Windsor.
New York, May 10, 1783.
Institution adopted at Headquarters of General Baron de Steuben,
Mt. Gulian, Fishkill, New York, May 13, 1783.
"The following principles shall be immutable and form the basis
of the Society of the Cincinnati:
"AN INCESSANT ATTENTION TO PRESERVE INVIOLATE THOSE
EXALTED RIGHTS AND LIBERTIES OF HUMAN NATURE, FOR WHICH
THEY HAVE FOUGHT AND BLED, AND WITHOUT WHICH THE HIGH
RANK OF RATIONAL BEING IS A CURSE INSTEAD OF A BLESSING.
"AN UNALTERABLE DETERMINATION TO PROMOTE AND
CHERISH, BETWEEN THE RESPECTIVE STATES, THAT UNION AND
NATIONAL HONOR so ESSENTIALLY NECESSARY TO THEIR
HAPPINESS, AND THE FUTURE DIGNITY OF THE AMERICAN EMPIRE.
"To RENDER PERMANENT THE CORDIAL AFFECTION SUB-
SISTING AMONG THE OFFICERS. THIS SPIRIT WILL DICTATE
BROTHERLY KINDNESS IN ALL THINGS, AND PARTICULARLY
EXTEND TO THE MOST SUBSTANTIAL ACTS OF BENEFICENCE,
ACCORDING TO THE ABILITY OF THE SOCIETY, TOWARDS THOSE
OFFICERS AND THEIR FAMILIES, WHO UNFORTUNATELY MAY BE
UNDER THE NECESSITY OF RECEIVING IT."
Remarks
(Parvin/AB)
February 17, 1983
1:00 p.m.
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: THE SOCIETY OF THE CINCINNATI RECEPTION
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1983
Thank you. I am very proud to become an honorary member of
the Society of the Cincinnati. I know the story of Cincinnatus,
who was called from his farm by the people of Rome to lead them
against the invaders. After he defeated the enemy, the grateful
Romans offered Cincinnatus power and privilege but he refused all
honors and returned to his farm. A number of people hope I'll
soon follow the example of Cincinnatus and return to my ranch.
But, of course, this Society was named after Cincinnatus
because of the parallel with the farmer of Mt. Vernon -- George
Washington. In 1775, Washington went to Philadelphia to
represent Virginia in the Second Continental Congress. We all
know of the events that occurred in Philadelphia -- events that
changed the course of history. Six long years passed before
Washington was again able to return to Mt. Vernon for a brief
stay on his way to Yorktown. It took another 2 years before
Washington was able to resign his commission and return to the
civilian life of a farmer. He was again called to Philadelphia;
this time for the Constitutional Convention. Then for another
8 years he led his Nation, not as General but as President.
In 1797, when he returned at last to his beloved Mt. Vernon,
he must have felt the deepest satisfaction from knowing he had
served his country in every capacity it had asked of him.
That is a story of unselfish service which all
schoolchildren -- and all adults for that matter -- should carry
Page 2
in their hearts. Your ancestors, the commissioned officers who
fought in the Revolution, sacrificed as well. Many of them had
served 7 or 8 years, leaving families behind. Some of the
officers had not been paid at all in 4 years. What is more, they
and their men fought with a great deal of courage but with few
supplies and little equipment.
Currently the Nation is debating the 1984 defense budget,
which is far different from the one in Washington's day. Today
we speak in billions, not thousands, and the talk is not of
muskets but MXs. Yet the ends are the same -- to secure liberty
and peace for the United States and her citizens.
And I want you, the descendants of those colonial officers,
to know I will fight to ensure that today's military officers and
their troops are given what they need to defend themselves and
their country. We cannot let the threat we face be minimized by
the budget deficit, as serious as that deficit is. Our country
has genuine, compelling defense needs and those needs must be
met. And to echo the words of Washington, "There is nothing so
likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet an enemy." "
The values and valor of those Continental soldiers helped to
release the freedom this blessed Nation now enjoys. The
vigilance and training of today's soldiers keep that freedom
secure. Yes, meeting the defense budget calls for sacrificing
other ways we might like to spend those funds, but this is a
small sacrifice compared to that of America's colonial citizens.
They paid with their blood and with long years of hardship.
Page 3
I've said before that I believe this land was set aside in
an uncommon way, that a Divine plan placed this great continent
between the oceans to be found by a people from every corner of
the Earth who had a special love of faith, freedom, and peace. I
know those are the very bonds that guide the Society of the
Cincinnati, and I am honored to be a member of this society.
Thank you, God bless you and God bless your brave ancestors.