A USS Monitor Christmas, 1862-- Part 3: An Officer Feast

Officers, with their better pay, could afford meals more along the gourmet level.  Paymaster Keeler proudly wrote his wife, Anna giving "a brief synopsis" of their feast.  "Soups, Fish, Oysters of course 'in every style.'  Turkey & other poultry & meats enough to start a Chatham Street eating house.  For dessert, oranges, Pineapples,  Apples, Figs, Raisins -- five  different kinds of nuts -- Peaches, Strawberries, Raspberries, Plums, Cherries, Quinces &c &c  in cans-- Mince & apple pies & cakes without end."

The officers washed down their feast with cider as well as blackberry and currant wines.

Feasting, But Meanwhile....  --Old B-R'er