Nelson spent half his final salary on port
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Many people admit to taking a tipple to give them Dutch courage, but Nelson could be said to have taken things to extremes.
Six weeks before the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, he spent half his annual salary on 375 gallons of port.
It cost him pounds 308 but he did not live to enjoy it, as he went off to battle and died on board his flagship, the Victory. However, it is believed mourners may have enjoyed it at his wake. Evidence of his purchase of the best port came to light with the discovery of a receipt and a letter confirming the order. They were found among papers by a Norfolk antiques dealer, who wishes to remain anonymous, and will be auctioned on Friday in Aylsham, Norfolk, where they are expected to fetch several hundred pounds.
The receipt shows the wine was delivered on 7 September 1805, to Nelson's estate at Merton Place, Surrey, where he lived with his mistress, Lady Hamilton. He died on 21 October after being hit by a musket ball during the battle. Les Winter, a founder member of the Nelson Society, believes the port was probably ordered under the direction of Lady Hamilton, known for her lavish entertaining.
Nelson was reputed to be a modest drinker. At today's prices the port would have cost about pounds 8,500. A modern admiral who wanted to spend half his annual salary would have to fork out nearly pounds 50,000.
-Kate Watson-Smyth
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments