It is no stretch of the imagination to view the early American tavern as a central meeting place, a setting for eating, drinking, lodging and socializing. It is more thought-provoking, however, to realize that the architecture of these Colonial establishments not only changed early American culture but was also one way in which a transplanted English institution eventually became uniquely American.

As roads began to be built connecting sometimes far-flung settlements in our country’s early history, some accommodations had to be made for the military and civilian traffic which began to travel them

At times the Colonial governments would not only license the taverns but actively encourage their establishment as well, in an effort to protect and further develop communication and commercial routes within a colony’s territory.

Sometimes built of the crudest construction, the tavern was still a welcome sight to a weary traveler who had struggled all day along roads often bordering on impassable. As conditions improved, however, it was not uncommon for travelers to share a bed, or perhaps the floor by the fireplace in order to sleep indoors under a roof rather than spend a night in their wagon. Prices for room and board, as well as liquor, were regulated by the county courts and other governing bodies.

In addition to their early function as aids to communication and accommodation of travelers, the tavern sometimes provided the meeting room for local government. Occasionally the placement of the first tavern in an unsettled area would determine the choice of the county seat by serving as government headquarters.

So too, the tavern might provide the most spacious room in the area for social events. Once independence had been achieved, the location was often the focus of Fourth of July celebrations. Excesses at these celebratory events as well as with daily visitors led to a dimmer view of the establishment as the 19th Century gave rise to more economic resources and more sophistication.

Tavern keeping was a fairly democratic profession, open to any national origin, and even blacks and women. The keeper usually supplemented his income with another profession, often serving as ferryman, smith, brewer, tanner, or providing another useful service.

A_certain amont of education, self-taught or otherwise, was required to keep good accounts, but requirements were not high. Patrons might well be illiterate, so often the only sign advertising the presence of a tavern was an image on a hanging board, often patriotic, such as an eagle or the representation of a local or national hero. Sometimes a simpler and more easily recognized image, such as a black horse, would suffice.

A_Look At The First

Stopovers For Travelers

These and many other points will be discussed during a slide presentation called “The Colonial Tavern: An Architectural and Cultural Perspective,” featuring the lecturer and restoration specialist Steven Bielitz.

Sponsored by Newtown Historical Society, the program will be presented in the community room of C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street in Newtown, on Monday, April 10. It will begin at 7:30 pm and is open to the public free of charge.

Mr Bielitz, who grew up in Glastonbury, leads The Glastonbury Restoration Company, situated in South Glastonbury. He founded the company when he decided to make a career out of his love for rehabilitating old and historic homes.

Mr Bielitz speaks of his work with a passion not often seen, talking about gambrels and lintels and all aspects of 18th Century architectural with a familiarity that only comes from experience and an enthusiasm all his own. He often recounts how as a child he badgered his parents to make frequent trips to Colonial Williamsburg, Old Sturbridge Village and Fort Ticonderoga.

“It was in my blood,” he laughs.

“We are very excited Mr Bielitz is speaking for us,” said Elin Hayes, president of Newtown Historical Society. “He has such a depth of knowledge of his subject, and he captivates the audience with his enthusiasm. I know this will be one of our most memorable program meetings.”

Presently, Mr Bielitz is working on several significant restoration projects including the 1830 Town Hall of Hebron Historical Society, a 1760s museum-house for Windsor Historical Society, and The Welles Shipman Ward House, circa 1755, for The Historical Society of Glastonbury. He has presented his lecture to many audiences including The Paul Revere Memorial Association, and other historical societies in Connecticut and Massachusetts.

For more information, contact Newtown Historical Society at 426-5937.