This is one of the all-important taverns where citizens met on Court Day and other occasions. Early taverns were social, civic, and political centers often at the heart of community life. The oldest section of the tavern is the small three-bay one-and-a-half-story frame section with an exterior-end brick chimney. As the county expanded, so did the tavern. The c. 1822 imposing brick section with keystoned window arches, central chimneys, two-story front gallery, and numerous exterior doors is a good example of a federal-era tavern. Typical of Southside are the shed dormers. The long brick rear ell was added c. 1830 as an extension of the public dining room and for a kitchen.