In 1880 General U. S. Grant, accompanied by General 
Phil H. Sheridan, paid Key West a visit, on his return from his 
tour around the world. He came on the steamship Admiral from 
New Orleans bound for Havana. It was a day memorable in 
the history of the island — all stores were closed, and it was made 
a general holiday. 

He was met by a committee consisting of Mr. John Jay 
Philbrick, Hons. Frank N. Wicker, George W. Allen, Eldridge 
L. Ware, Joseph B. Browne, G. Bowne Patterson, Judge James 
W. Locke and many others. A drive over the island, a public 
reception, and a banquet were part of the functions provided for 
his entertainment. The banquet was served in the St. James hotel, 
as it was then called, prepared by Mr. L. Y. Jenness. The menu 
was printed on silk American flags; the red, white and blue color 
scheme being carried out in the badges and decorations. 

Source:  Key West the Old and the New", on-line, page 18