Although one nice early U.S. gold coin was passed around the table, there was little numismatics and a whole lot of fellowship at this month's meeting of my Northern Virginia numismatic social group Nummis Nova. We met with our spouses for our annual holiday event, held this year at Gadsby's Tavern in Alexandria, VA. It was our first such event in two years due to the pandemic, and the first since the passing of longtime member Joe Levine.

Dave Schenkman was our host, and he'd arranged for the room at Gadsby's. John Gadsby operated the hotel and tavern from 1796 to 1808. His establishment was a center of political, business, and social life in early Alexandria. The tavern was the setting for dancing, theatrical and musical performances, and meetings of local organizations. George Washington twice attended the annual Birthnight Ball held there in his honor. Other prominent patrons included John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette.

Dave has an article about Gadsby and a piece of paper money he issued in the January 2022 issue of The Numismatist.

The rooms were candlelit and our servers were wearing late 1700s garb. Here are some photos.

FROM LEFT: Phyllis Haynor, Dorothy (Dot) and Tom Kays, Jon Radel, Dave Schenkman, Eric Schena

Clockwise, from left: Daryl and Phyllis Haynor, Dorothy (Dot) and Tom Kays, Jon Radel, Joanne and Dave Schenkman

Far end: Eric Schena

Continuing clockwise on right: Mike Packard, Chris Neuzil, Steve Bishop, Wayne and Karin Herndon. Photos by Wayne Homren

Here are some additional photos from Tom Kays. Thanks.

A great time was had by all. Happy holidays, everyone.