The Full Story
Explore the rich history - A journey through time
Discover the rich history of Virginia's oldest tavern, now fully renovated and ready for you to explore. Immerse yourself in the charm and character of this historic landmark, and experience the unique atmosphere that has been enjoyed by visitors for centuries. Come and discover the stories and traditions that have made this tavern a beloved part of Virginia's heritage.
From Humble Beginnings...
Welcome to the oldest tavern in Virginia! Our rich history dates back to 1710 when the right side of our dining room was first built. Two years later, in 1712, the left side of our dining room was added on. Between 1718 and 1758, the bar was added, making our tavern a true historic landmark.
If you're curious about the history of our building, we're happy to share that it's over 300 years old. Many of the original features have been preserved, including the floors in our dining room, windows, ceilings, and fireplaces. We've also added some unique touches, like using 150-year-old walls from an old hardware store in Warsaw, VA for the floors in our bar area, and 125-year-old church pews from Newport, VA for seating. Our bar is made from 300-year-old walnut from Oakalona in Occupacia, VA.
1710 Tavern has a rich history, having served as many different things throughout the years including a private residence for a pharmacist and a tavern on and off. It is the oldest tavern in the area, predating all roads. Originally located on the main port, it was the perfect stop for travelers. The tavern was an "ordinary," which meant it was both a tavern and an inn. Guests could get food and drinks for money or trade tobacco. three small rooms upstairs could house up to five people each, and guests were locked in at night to prevent theft. A ladder outside the windows provided an escape route in case of fire. Come immerse yourself in the history this amazing building holds. Let us take you on a journey through time.
For more historical insights, follow us on Facebook or Instagram! We post new historical pieces every Tuesday, showcasing all the incredible aspects of the Tavern. The pictures shown all have a story and you can find these stories on our social media! Additionally, be sure to visit the Essex County Museum just down the street! They offer a wealth of information about our cherished town and Tavern.
Restoring 1710: A Talk by Greg Huff
Step inside the story of 1710 Tavern and the Historic Essex Inn through a special behind-the-scenes talk by our owner, Greg Huff. From uncovering centuries-old fireplaces to reinforcing hand-hewn beams, Greg shares the incredible effort and vision it took to restore these National Historic Registry landmarks. Learn how decades of damage were reversed, what secrets the building revealed (including Roman numerals carved into original structures!), and how history was thoughtfully preserved to create the space you enjoy today.
Listen to the full talk and explore the accompanying presentation to see the transformation for yourself.
Tavern History Tuesday
Heritage. Evolution. Legacy.
In January 2024, we began sharing our storied past on social media every Tuesday, taking advantage of our closure that day. The response was overwhelming—our audience quickly developed a deep appreciation for our Tavern's rich history. What started with a single post has blossomed into a weekly tradition: Tavern History Tuesday! Now, we've made these posts accessible in a more user-friendly format, ensuring our customers can easily delve into our Tavern's fascinating past. We hope you find as much joy in exploring this history as we do in sharing it!
