A nickname applied to some of the Massachusetts Federalists by President John Adams (1797–1801). His exact phrase was “the Essex Junta.”
1801. If such an association existed, and was denominated by its enemies the Essex Junto, it has not retained that name because its members were thought to be confined to [that] county; but the name was extended.—Mass. Spy, Sept. 16.
1808. “Essex Junto Meetings.” This is the title given in the Monitor [Mr. Madison’s paper] to the meetings in Newengland for petitioning the President.—Thomas Jefferson, with reference to the Embargo.—Id., Aug. 31.
1825. I do not know that the Essex Junto of Boston were monarchists, but I have always heard it so said, and never doubted.—Thomas Jefferson to W. Short, Jan. 8.
