You might remember in my other journal of Old Salem that I told you there was the Tavern building and what is now the Old Salem Tavern, which is an exquisite restaurant. Well, this is the history of the Tavern building, which sits next door to the restaurant.

The Salem Tavern, which was built in 1771, was one of the first buildings constructed in the new territory. The first tavern owners were Jacob and Dorthea Meyer, who ran the business from 1772 until 1780. Of all this buildings in Salem, this was the one most dependent on slave labor. They had a number of slaves here who helped keep the tavern running smooth. It was one of the first buildings restored during the 1950s.

It was built on the southern outskirts of the town because the town elders sought to protect their congregation from outside influences brought by those visiting the tavern. The tavern was one of the most successful businesses in town, and the steady flow of visitors brought a steady income to the church. The Salem Tavern would become know throughout the area and the southeast for its hospitality and service.

The Moravians often referred to those traveling though as Strangers and the townspeople were not permitted to mix with the Strangers unless they had business with them. The church was afraid of the influence they might bring upon their congregation. Now, more influential Strangers would be able to engage in a nice meal and perhaps a beverage afterwards. They would dine in the Gentleman Room, which was more intimate. They could rent a room upstairs during their stay. One of the most well-known guests was George Washington, who visited in 1791. Those who didn’t quite have the moolah to spend could enjoy an ordinary meal served several times throughout the day and could get a room in the boarding house next door (now the Old Salem Tavern Restaurant). Most guests tended to be those on business or family whose daughters were at the Salem Girls School. During the Revolution, the tavern was busy housing and feeding soldiers.

Today, you can visit the rooms and the basement. Costume docents are on hand to answer any questions you may have. The rooms have been painstakingly restored to the way they would have appeared when good ole’ George stayed. You might be lucky enough to catch an open-hearth cooking demonstration. A warning, though: the smells here are heavenly, so I would visit close to or after you have eaten. Or else you might loose all resolve and duck into one of the gift shops to nibble on some Moravian cookies. You can tour the building on your own. You do need an Old Salem ticket to come inside. The house is open from 9am to 5:30pm. Photography without a flash is permitted. You may turn the flash on in the basement. For more information, you can go to www.oldsalem.org.