Aug 20, 1774-John Adams and the Massachusetts delegation traveled to Philadelphia for the First Continental Congress in 1774, stopping in New York City from August 20-26. Adams was fascinated by the city, recording detailed observations in his diary. He met political figures like Alexander McDougall, who introduced him to key allies and explained the city's political factions—the pro-independence Livingstons and the more cautious DeLanceys. Adams noted New Yorkers’ eagerness to win him over, describing their bold, fast-paced conversations and strategic hospitality.