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Our Plaster and Lath

Welcome back to more History, where we unveil the hidden stories and secrets of our cherished Tavern. We're diving into the fascinating world of plaster and lath, essential to the construction of our beloved establishment.

But what exactly is plaster and lath? It's a building technique primarily used for finishing interior walls and ceilings. This process involves securing narrow strips of wood or laths horizontally across wall studs or ceiling joists, then coating them with plaster. Originating from an earlier method known as wattle and daub, plaster and lath was prevalent until the advent of plasterboard in the 1930s, particularly in the U.K. However, in Canada and the United States, wood lath and plaster persisted until being supplanted by drywall.

Plaster and lath, while offering superior soundproofing and insulation compared to drywall, became less common due to its labor-intensive nature and higher costs. Despite its eventual decline, our Tavern proudly retains its original plaster and lath walls, showcasing the craftsmanship of yesteryears.

When our Tavern was first constructed, the lath was hand-split, a laborious process that persisted until the introduction of machine-cut lath in the 1800s. The only machine-cut lath in the Tavern is the exposed plaster and lath you see in the picture. The addition of horsehair to the plaster provided extra lateral support, ensuring durability and minimizing cracks.

Next time you're in the Tavern, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship of our plaster and lath walls. It's a testament to the evolving techniques of construction and a reminder of our rich heritage. We hope you enjoy the shared History, and we'll be back next week with more intriguing tales from our Tavern's storied past!

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Located on: 314 S. Water Lane, Tappahannock, VA. 22560

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