The Delaval family lived at Seaton Delaval in south east Northumberland but also had estates in the late 18th century at Ford (North Northumberland) and Doddington (Lincolnshire). At this time the 1st Baron Delaval, John Hussey Delaval was living at Seaton Delaval Hall. He was involved in politics and for various periods between 1754 and 1786, he was an MP for Berwick. The family were renowned for their parties and lavish entertaining at Seaton Delaval Hall.

This document is an estimate of the expenses for a Ball and Supper held at Seaton Delaval Hall on New Year’s Eve in 1795. The financial account doesn’t tell us how many people were there but some of them must have brought their servants and stayed overnight as the record shows meals for servants and hay for horses.

The food listed helps us see what was served at a large supper at a Ball in the late 18th century. There must have been a large buffet consisting of various pies (turkey) and meats (venison, ham and tongue), probably cold because of the reference to jelly.

There were also sweet dishes including savoy cakes, cheesecakes and small cakes as well as a variety of fruits – almonds, raisins, apples pears and oranges. The guests were also offered wine to drink as well as tea and coffee, bottled beer and porter. The ingredients for a drink called “Megus” are also listed, some form of cocktail which included lemons, sugar and nutmeg. This may be the 18th century drink “Negus” which was wine mixed with hot water, lemons, spices and sugar.

Music for dancing was provided by 3 fiddlers and a harpman who were paid one guinea each and even the cost of the lighting is added in – candles and whale oil for larger lamps.

In total the estimated cost for the ball was £29 5s 3 ½d, equivalent to £2,246-54 in 2017 and equivalent to 195 days wages of a skilled tradesmen in 1795. Unfortunately, there isn’t a list of who attended.