Maine has some of the most interesting history in the northeast, but sometimes this history comes in places you least expect. In addition to old mills, roads and historic homes, a lot of Maine’s history lies within the old businesses and shops that have stood the test of time. But, only one of these places can be referred to as the “the Birthplace of Maine.” To find out how it earned this distinction, check out this story of the state’s oldest standing tavern.

Located in Freeport since 1779, Jameson Tavern has a story rich in Maine history.
Jameson Tavern / Facebook
The tavern was originally built as a family home for local doctor, John Anglier Hyde.
Charles Jackson / Flickr
His family lived here until 1801 when it was bought by Captain Samuel Jameson. Captain Jameson and his wife turned it into "Jameson’s Tavern." It operated under this name until 1828 when the captain's widow sold it to Richard Codman.

From 1828 until 1856, it was operated as an inn known as Codman’s Tavern. In 1856 the property was bought by local shipbuilder, John Cushing.
Its atmosphere and location made it an ideal place for meetings and one very special meeting in particular took place here!
Jameson Tavern / Facebook
Records show that commissioners met in the northeast corner of the second floor of the inn to sign the papers that gave Maine independence from Massachusetts. Today, a plaque placed by the Daughters of the Revolution in 1914 commemorates the event.

The tavern's Freeport location made it a good stopping point between Portland and cities further north, making it the perfect place for people like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Franklin Pierce to stop en route to Bowdoin.
The current owners purchased the tavern in 1981 and today, a walk through the halls will give visitors a sense of what it may have looked like back in 1779.
Jameson Tavern / Facebook

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Outside, however, it feels like a modern bar and grill with wonderful outdoor seating.
Patrick V. / Yelp
And a full bar filled with local beers.
Tiffany Joyce / Flickr
The seafood is great too!
Ireen K. / Yelp
And the menu has everything you'd expect a quintessential Maine tavern to offer.
Ireen K. / Yelp
Jameson's Tavern is open everyday from 11am to 9pm.
Fabian L. / Yelp

You can find Jameson Tavern at 115 Main Street, Freeport, Maine. You can call them on (207) 865-4196.

For another piece of history, check out the story of Maine’s oldest inn by clicking here.

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