Everything Everywhere Daily The 1826 West Point Egg Nog Riot
Dec 24, 2024
Discover the wild history of West Point, transitioning from chaos to a prestigious military institution. This tale centers on the outrageous 1826 Egg Nog Riot, where cadets, led by Jefferson Davis, sneak in alcohol and throw an unforgettable Christmas party. The night spirals into mayhem, challenging military authority and culminating in a chaotic confrontation. Explore how this legendary incident shaped the academy's future and its strict honor code.
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Rowdy Fourth of July
- Cadets staged a "snake dance" on July 4, 1825, carrying Commandant Worth back to barracks.
- This rowdy celebration led to alcohol being banned from campus, setting the stage for the Eggnog Riot.
Smuggling Spirits
- Cadets, including Jefferson Davis, plotted to get alcohol for their Christmas eggnog.
- They smuggled gallons of whiskey and rum, even rowing across the Hudson River to obtain it.
Party and Intervention
- The Christmas Eve party started in the North Barracks and escalated quickly as cadets became intoxicated.
- Captain Hitchcock intervened, ordering Davis to his room and reminding cadets of the rules.