The White Horse Tavern was built in 1652 when our nation was a loose band of colonies British soldiers, pirates, and colonists all called Newport home. The large building was converted to a tavern in 1672, making it the oldest tavern in the United States. This unique Rhode Island treasure was one of the nation’s first meeting houses and served all manner of early American residents, including Hessian mercenaries, sailors, and even founding fathers.
When the tavern first opened, many people couldn't read. The white horse was the symbol for a tavern.
He was granted a license to sell "all manner of strong drink" and was strongly supported by the people of Newport, causing plenty of embarrassment for British officials of the colony.
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William's sister Mary Mayes Nichols and her husband took over as innkeepers, and after them, their sons.
For the next 100 years, before the Colony House was built, the large tavern was the meeting place for the City Council, Criminal Court, and the Colony's General Assembly.
As the oldest tavern in the United States, it has its share of ghost stories. An elderly gentleman who died while renting a room in the tavern's early days is said to still be around.
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The tavern underwent a much-needed renovation in 1957.
The tavern was an infamous spot for revelry during the America's Cup races. On his 90th birthday, Pitts turned it over to Newport native Paul Hogan. He is only the 6th owner in its 350-year history.
Visiting the oldest bar in America is on a lot of people’s Bucket List. Is it on yours? The White Horse Tavern is located at 26 Marlborough Street in Newport. Let us know your experience in the comments.
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