Overview of Colonial Taverns
In colonial America, taverns were a big part of everyday life for colonists. They were considered "storefronts", because they introduced new products to colonial life. People would gather in them for entertainment purposes, which would include activities such as games or the local gossip. Taverns played a big role in the American Revolution, as it is believed taverns are the "starting ground" for the revolt. They had many uses, such as the local post office, or the court house. A person would drop off what they wanted to mail out at their local tavern and it would be carried on from town to town by the travelers. Taverns were places for people to stay while traveling. Owners of taverns focused more on "quantity rather than quality" for overnight guests. It was common for guests to share beds with strangers, or to sleep on the floor if all of the rooms were occupied.
Virtual Tour
The City Tavern, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, provides us with an insight into what taverns were like during the colonial period.
In colonial America, taverns were a big part of everyday life for colonists. They were considered "storefronts", because they introduced new products to colonial life. People would gather in them for entertainment purposes, which would include activities such as games or the local gossip. Taverns played a big role in the American Revolution, as it is believed taverns are the "starting ground" for the revolt. They had many uses, such as the local post office, or the court house. A person would drop off what they wanted to mail out at their local tavern and it would be carried on from town to town by the travelers. Taverns were places for people to stay while traveling. Owners of taverns focused more on "quantity rather than quality" for overnight guests. It was common for guests to share beds with strangers, or to sleep on the floor if all of the rooms were occupied.
Virtual Tour
The City Tavern, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, provides us with an insight into what taverns were like during the colonial period.