Treaty of Paris Plaque

The American Revolutionary War, fought between Great Britain and the American Colonies, technically ended in France—in a Paris hotel on September 3, 1783.  John Adams, John Jay, and Benjamin Franklin were the American representatives at the signing, while King George III sent a delegation who wouldn’t even sit for a portrait of the historical occasion.  

In 1783, the Hotel D’York often served as a neutral meeting place for dignitaries and treaty signings from around the globe. No champagne was poured at this occasion, however, as there was still deep animosity between all countries involved. 

Today, the Hotel D’York is no longer, and the only reminder that historical documents were signed inside is a marble plaque fastened to the original building facade on the outside. The marker is written in French, but the important details are easily translated. 

Today the building is home of the Typographie De Firmin Didot, for printing, engraving, and typography. This spot is free to see, but there is little other than the plaque to take note of. Visitors must be buzzed in to enter the building, and there is nothing of interest in the lobby. 

Update September 2018: The plaque has been removed.

Update June 2020: The plaque has been replaced.