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Reminisce:
250th Marine Corps Birthday
Marine Corps Ball 2025
Tun Tavern History
On top of drafting militiamen, in October 1775, a seven-person committee -- led by John Adams -- met at Tun Tavern to draft articles of war and commission a new naval fleet. But something was still missing from the colonies' new armed forces: Marines.
On Nov. 10, 1775, an innkeeper (and former Quaker) named Samuel Nicholas was assigned by the Continental Congress to raise the first two battalions of Marines, so he did it at -- where else? -- Tun Tavern. Nicholas was given the rank of captain and appointed commandant of the new Continental Marines. Robert Mullan, son of Peggy (of Red-Hot Beef Steak fame), was the official proprietor of Tun Tavern and was dubbed "Chief Marine Recruiter."
Nicholas and Mullan recruited skilled marksmen to become the first Marines from a Conestoga wagon outside of the tavern. The first-ever company of Marines consisted of 100 Rhode Islanders. They, like the rest of the new Marine Corps, were posted aboard Continental Navy ships.
Throughout the Revolutionary War, Philadelphia was a contested city. It was the second-largest port city in the British Empire (after London itself). As capital of the rebel country, it was the target of the British from early in the war. The British held the city until their defeat at Saratoga, New York.
After France joined the war on the American side, Gen. William Howe resigned in Philadelphia in 1778, and his successor, Sir Henry Clinton, abandoned control of the city in favor of protecting the Eastern coast from a French attack. Tun Tavern stood the whole time, even as fighting raged in the streets.
In 1781, Tun Tavern burned down, a disastrous end to an illustrious and historic site and was never rebuilt. Marines visiting the Society Hill area of the city can visit the historical marker at 175 Front St. and learn more about its history at the nearby New Hall Military Museum.
Why the Birthday Celebration?
The U.S. Marine Corps begins preparations for its "birthday party" every summer. Activities become more feverish as the fall hues arrive. By early November, every Marine is either rehearsing his role in the "party" or pressing, polishing, and spit-shining in order to appear at his or her best for the Birthday Ball. This has not always been the case, however. In fact, Marines have not always celebrated their founding on November the 10th.
Formal commemoration of the birthday of the Marine Corps began on 10 November 1921. That particular date was chosen because on that day the Second Continental Congress resolved in 1775 to raise two battalions of Continental Marines.
Traditionally, the first piece of Birthday cake is presented to the oldest Marine present and the second piece to the youngest Marine present. When and where this tradition began remains unknown. Some records indicate this practice, and others vary it depending on the dignitaries present at the ball.
At present, celebrations of the Marine Corps Birthday on 10 November differ at posts and stations throughout the Corps. All commemorations include the reading of Marine Corps Order No. 47, and the Commandant's message to those assembled. Most commands sponsor a Birthday Ball of some sort, complete with pageant and cake ceremony as prescribed in the Marine Corps Manual.
Like the Corps itself, the Birthday Ball developed from simple origins to become the polished, professional function that all Marines commemorate on 10 November around the world.
2025 Marine Corps Birthday Message
In 2025, the United States Marine Corps celebrated its 250th birthday, marking a significant milestone in its storied history. The Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Eric M. Smith, and Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sgt. Maj. Carlos A. Ruiz, delivered a heartfelt message to honor this occasion. They emphasized the enduring values of discipline, initiative, and the fighting spirit that have defined the Corps for two and a half centuries.
The message reflected on the legacy of Marines who have served with honor and courage, while also looking forward to the challenges of the future. It underscored the Corps' unwavering commitment to its motto, Semper Fidelis—Always Faithful—and its readiness to adapt and prevail in the battles of the next 250 years.
The celebration of this milestone was a tribute to the sacrifices and achievements of Marines past and present, reaffirming their vital role in defending the nation and upholding freedom worldwide.
