This Newark, Delaware, hotel and tavern daybook belonged to owner, John David Herdman, Jr. It covers transactions for two-and-a-half years of the business with over 3000 entries, including the sale of beer, wine, and spirituous liquors from the tavern as well as charges for lodging at the hotel.

Harriet B. Miles of Newark, Delaware, used this account book to record her household expenses from 1866 to 1878. She also recorded interest payments on bonds she held and entries regarding the administration of her mother’s estate.