Publisher's Synopsis
This book is a compelling saga of an ordinary man doing extraordinary things that helped forge our nation's history.
This deeply researched book shares riveting details of the exploits of Samuel Fraunces who saved General Washington's life twice. It exposes the true story behind the Poison Peas Plot to assassinate George Washington, outlines the background of the traitorous plans of Benedict Arnold and Major Andre, explains the hanging of Thomas Hickey and the real reason Gen. Lee disobeyed Washington's orders and much more.
Samuel Fraunces became a successful entrepreneur despite his mixed racial background. He was married to a white woman in a slave state and his actions during the war could have resulted in him being sold into slavery or killed as a traitor. Despite this, he volunteered to be captured and serve as Chef to the head of the English Occupation forces. This position allowed him to feed prisoners of war and effect several escapes. His secret life lasted 7 very long years during which he passed critical intelligence to General Washington without detection.
He was the first restauranteur in American to offer meals 'a la carte' and was well known for his exquisite cooking, baking and legendary wine selections. Samuel and his wife created a famous wax works exhibition at their resort, Vauxhall many years before Madame Tussaud's. Samuel's wife Elizabeth managed their resort, taught their children to read and write and was a force in her own right. She was a full partner in their business - almost unheard of at the time.
Students and history buffs will appreciate details of Washington's intelligence operations and the brave men and women of both sides in this war. It bares the grim realities of war and the suffering and loss incurred.
Samuel catered the peace treaty between the United States and England and the Book of Negroes was written at his tavern before Evacuation Day. During this entire time Sam was living a double life in an occupied city without his family.
Like most others, Samuel and his family were left destitute after the war. Samuel was asked to become the First Steward to the First President's House in the United States where Sam, a free man of color, managed the white staff and Washington's black slaves. He established the protocols for all future White House Head Ushers.
