Taverns were the center of colonial life in Virginia and beyond. The tavern (also known as an ordinary, inn, or public house) ranged from rural outposts dotting travel routes, to elaborate gathering halls in state capitals and other bustling trading towns. Contradictory rules about who could patronize the tavern and who could own or work at the tavern were established by law, and prevented practically everyone except free white men from frequenting such establishments. This exhibition presents an overview of tavern life in Virginia, the role of women and minorities in operations, and the historic Virginian taverns that can still be visited today.
Enter the interactive gallery below to view the exhibition and learn more.
Click the Play symbol beside each wall text section for audio accompaniment; click the symbol again to stop the audio. At the bottom right of the gallery window, click the ? for assistance navigating, and the arrows to expand into full screen (press the ESC key on your keyboard to exit full screen).
