A Step Back in Time: Discovering America’s Oldest Tavern
If you ever find yourself wandering the historic streets of Newport, Rhode Island, you might stumble upon a building that isn’t just a landmark—it’s a living remnant of the 1600s. The White Horse Tavern holds the prestigious title of the oldest tavern in the United States, boasting a history that predates the Declaration of Independence by over a century.
More Than Just a Building
The structure began as a private residence in 1652 before transitioning into a tavern in 1673. Its architecture is a rare sight for modern eyes, featuring a massive central plaster chimney and a distinct gambrel roof, designed to provide more headspace in the attic.
In 1673, the building was enlarged by the Mayes family. One of its most colorful figures from this era was William Mayes Jr., a privateer—or what some might call a “legal pirate”—who helped run the establishment. Under their stewardship, the tavern became the beating heart of Newport’s burgeoning colonial economy.
The “Social Media” of the 1700s
Long before the internet or even dedicated municipal buildings existed, the White Horse Tavern served as the civic center of the community where people could meet up. It was basically the town square. It was a “hub” for news, business, and heated debates. In fact, it was so central to local life that it also served as the seat of government, hosting the General Assembly, the Criminal Court, and the Newport City Council. It was truly the meeting place or the “social media of the 1700s,” a place where the very concept of self-government was argued and refined.
Surviving the Revolution
The tavern’s importance didn’t go unnoticed by the British. During the American Revolution, British and Hessian troops occupied the building, using it as a residence. This created an incredibly tense atmosphere where local Patriots had to eat and drink alongside the very soldiers who were occupying their town. Throw in a bunch of regular loyalists also eating and drinking at the tavern, and one can see how tricky the dynamics of that tavern’s survival were.
Despite these hardships and a period of disrepair following the War of 1812, after the British left, the tavern was eventually saved by the Preservation Society of Newport County. They recognized it as a vital piece of colonial identity that could not be lost to history.
A Legacy of Leadership
Today, the White Horse Tavern is a National Landmark and a flourishing restaurant where you can still enjoy spirits and a meal in a setting that helped shape the nation.
Beyond its historical value, the tavern offers a timeless lesson in leadership: Great leaders create gathering places where ideas can be shared. For over 350 years, the White Horse Tavern has been exactly that—a place for connection, community, and the exchange of ideas that built a country.
If you’re ever in Rhode Island, make sure to stop by, grab some food, and soak in the history of a place that is literally older than the United States itself.
Uncovering History. Inspiring Leadership. The Travel in Time Show is where travel, history, and leadership intermingle with history teacher, author, and speaker Dan Blanchard
*Check out Dan’s book, “Travel in Time in New England: https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-Ne…
*Watch Dan’s video on this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNlKYp8FsJ0&t=5s
*Listen to Dan’s podcast on this episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7pCKQwMzvQLaIJgBgOPLtT?si=2tUJe0nyTbyf1QPEVyIa8Q
*See Dan’s Interview with Privateer William Mayes Jr.: (Coming Soon)
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