Disclaimer: No rights infringement intended Warning: Mature Adults only

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Sharpe's Banquet

Historical Note

Historical Note



Sharpe and Lewrie are fictional characters. They share common stories of how their lives began. Both went to be raised in an orphanage, picked oakum and moved beyond the orphanage. They had a few times in their lives where they crossed paths.

Several of us as fans of both thought that it is fun and fitting that as they both ‘retire’ that they meet one last time. And, if this may be the last story for Sharpe, he can say farewell to some of his long-time supporters in London.

Sharpe gathers in London friends to say goodbye at the First Waterloo Banquet.

The Duke of Wellington bought Apsley house from his brother Richard in 1817. He employed the architect Benjamin Dean Wyatt to carry out renovations. Two years later, the first phase, which included a three-storey extension to the north east, began. This extension included a State Dining Room, bedrooms and dressing rooms. When the work was finished, Wellesley decided to commemorate the victory at Waterloo by hosting a banquet. He set the date for the first for June 18, 1822. There were 1,770 potential guests. But, the State Dining Room holds only 36.

In 1829, the banquet moves to the Waterloo Gallery room after the second phase of renovation completed. started after Wellington became Prime Minister in 1828. Phase two included a new staircase and the "Waterloo Gallery" on the west side of the house. Now hosts 74 attendees.

Over 30 years only 179 attended. An elite few all male event. Many of British society tried to be invited or to spectate.

Sharpe did not like such affairs. In fact he did all that he could to avoid them. But through the years, when Wellesley called, Sharpe responded. Wellington would continue to invite Sharpe to the banquet.


At home, he has his family and friends Since the banquets occur near his birthday, he chooses to celebrate his birthday at home. Perhaps he will attend another banquet, but he will always remember this first Waterloo Banquet. For Richard Sharpe, 1st Baronet tof Wapping, Colonel of the South Essex, that first banquet is Sharpe’s Banquet.

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