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Kentucky Gazette And General Advertiser
Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky
What is this article about?
In February 1806, post-war Frankfort faced a 4 million franc contribution demanded by Napoleon via Marshal Augereau. Magistrates sought relief in Paris, imposed a 2% tax on residents, and warned of a larger garrison if unpaid, leading to suspension of public amusements.
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Since the conclusion of war, this city has experienced its disagreeable consequences in the highest degree. Besides the troops we have had to quarter, a contribution of four million of francs have been imposed on us. On the 4th the following letter was addressed by marshal Augereau to our magistrates :
GENTLEMEN,
I am ordered by my Sovereign the emperor of the French, and king of Italy, to demand a contribution of four millions from the town of Frankfort, as I have no doubt but that you will testify your readiness to comply with the desire of his majesty, I request that you will as speedily as possible place the said sum in the hands of the Treasurer General of the grand army. M. Garan inspector of reviews, who will present this letter to you, is instructed to be the interpreter of my sentiments to the Senate, in order that he may confer farther with them on the subject of his mission.
I have the honor,
With high consideration, to be,
Your's &c.
AUGEREAU.
Darmstadt, Feb. 4, 1806.
Immediately upon the receipt of this letter the magistrates assembled to consider upon its contents, and resolved to send three of their number to Paris, to beseech the Emperor of the French to relieve the city from this heavy contribution. The Senate afterwards addressed a proclamation to the Burghers, to inform them, that if the half of the contribution was not speedily raised, a new garrison of ten thousand men would be sent into the town. On the contrary, if the sum was raised, it was not only hoped the other half of the contribution would not be required, but that the number of troops in town would speedily be reduced.
The senate has employed every means to raise the sum required.— A Call has been made upon all the inhabitants without distinction for two per cent, on the funds, merchandise, furniture and property of every kind. This tax was to be paid within eight days at the least.
Since this happened all public amusements have ceased. The theatres are shut up, and no more concerts have been holden.
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Foreign News Details
Primary Location
Frankfort
Event Date
February 4 8, 1806
Key Persons
Outcome
imposition of 4 million franc contribution; city raises half via 2% tax to avoid 10,000 more troops and potential full demand; public amusements ceased.
Event Details
Post-war, Frankfort quartered troops and faced a 4 million franc contribution demanded by Napoleon through Augereau's letter from Darmstadt on Feb. 4. Magistrates sent envoys to Paris for relief, proclaimed need to raise half quickly to reduce troops, imposed 2% tax on all property payable in 8 days.