Welcome back to another installment of Tavern History Tuesday. Today, we take a closer look at the historical treasures that breathe life into our beloved Tavern. For those who have been following our journey, you may already know that many of the items adorning our space were sourced from the historic Indian Banks estate—a home steeped in rich history and architectural beauty.

Indian Banks, built in 1699, is a grand plantation manor located in Farnham, Virginia, at the confluence of Morattico Creek and the Rappahannock River. This two-story, five-bay Colonial brick dwelling, with its distinctive hipped roof, interior end chimneys, and undulating brick façade, stands as a testament to the architectural elegance of a bygone era. It was constructed on the site of the Moraughtacund Indian village, which Captain John Smith visited in 1608. Adding to its significance, Indian Banks was once the home of Esther Ball, George Washington's aunt. The estate's name wasn’t recorded until 1822, yet it remains a remarkable piece of American history.

Indian Banks is celebrated not only for its historical importance but also for its architectural blend of Jacobean and Georgian styles. The home features a medieval touch added through its L-shaped rear wing, combining multiple design elements that reflect the evolution of early American architecture. It is also the ancestral home of the Glascocks, a family of wealthy tobacco farmers who maintained close ties to many of the nation’s founding fathers. Indian Banks was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, solidifying its place in history.

Some of the unique pieces from Indian Banks now grace our Tavern. In picture three, you’ll notice a casket found in a barn on the estate grounds. The ends of our bar rail, as shown in picture four, were once part of a graveyard fence, adding a touch of historical intrigue. Additionally, the buffet you see in picture five originally resided in the dining room of Indian Banks, offering yet another tangible connection to this remarkable site.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s exploration into the items that enrich our Tavern’s atmosphere. Indian Banks’ long and storied past continues to be part of the charm that makes our establishment so special. Until next time, thank you for joining us for another Tavern History Tuesday!