The Dollop with Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds 557 - Augustus Woodward - live
Nov 1, 2022
Guest Augustus Woodward, a historical judge in the Michigan Territory, offers a lively glimpse into the chaos of 18th and 19th-century America. The conversation dives into his eccentric life, urban planning failures, and notorious drinking habits. Humorous anecdotes reveal the absurdity of a city in flames and the unrealistic visions for post-fire Detroit. The discussion critiques the idealized Founding Fathers and explores chaotic courtroom antics, showcasing the quirky interactions and high-stakes drama of a turbulent era.
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Woodward's Slovenly Persona
- Augustus Woodward was known for his slovenliness and poor personal hygiene, often appearing disheveled and odorous in court.
- Contemporaries described him as tall, thin, sallow, and stooped with a big nose and soiled ruffled clothing.
Visionary But Unrealistic City Plan
- Woodward designed a futuristic, Paris-inspired city plan for Detroit with radial avenues and broad boulevards.
- This plan ignored existing realities like the river-centric farms and the small population, causing opposition from locals.
Lobbying Congress With Wine
- Woodward and Governor Hull went to DC to pitch their city plans and used wine to wine and dine Congress members.
- Woodward admitted buying over $300 worth of wine to influence Congress to approve their plans.