Taverns and Inns provided the keystone to colonial living in the early days of the United States of America. Contrary to popular belief, it was not the unquenchable thirsts of the settlers which gave the tavern such an important role to play.

In much the same manner as the hotels and motels of the twentieth century, taverns became important because of the travel. Roads of that era were little more than cow paths. Their crudeness made travel slow, uncertain and uncomfortable. At best, travel was a matter of constant jouncing and jarring, a fact which made the tavern a most welcome sight for the weary rider.

The advent of privately-owned turnpikes did much to improve the plight of the traveler, for it was then that the stagecoach lines and freight hauling enterprises were established, bringing with them many luxuries previously unheard of. Taverns dotted the countryside for the sole purpose of accommodating highway travelers, but many of them remained as historic landmarks long after their original usefulness had vanished.

The first stagecoaches were little more than covered wagons with three straight backed benches inside. Most frequently, passengers portrayed a scene familiar to the bus rider of today. The first people on the coach would grab the front seats. As a result, the latecomer was forced to crawl over everyone else in an attempt to gain a seat.

At one time in history, the stagecoaches had no doors. Passengers, therefore, were compelled to crawl onto the coaches on their hands and knees. Needless to say, the awkward attempts of the ladies to reach a seat in those days afforded great pleasure to their male companions. It is obvious that such cumbersome modes of transportation were a tremendous boon to the innkeeper.

A jovial nature was a must for him who intended to make a career of providing food and lodging for his neighbors. Edward Field has quoted a writer as describing innkeepers thusly: "…some landlords were so full of sunshine that it was June all year round; others had minds so frostbitten that there was no hope for except in the January thaw…"

The tavern proprietor was generally a man whose company was sought for its cheer and comfort. Here, indeed, was the man whose business would flourish.

The duties of the tavern owner were as varied as their temperaments. On Sundays, his lodging served frequently as the meeting house, at which times his voice could be heard loud and clear above the others as he led the community singing. Just as often, he served as schoolmaster for those whose parents frequented the establishment.

Usually he could be found serving his community in the legislature and other municipal offices. Often when the court was adjourned, the presiding officer would be seen returning to his duties in the tavern.

Contrary to modern practices, the ancient tavern was required to be located near the church. Just as repulsive to the twentieth century blue law fanatic is the fact that all inns and taverns provided alcoholic beverages, in addition to food and lodging. In most instances, the serving of spirits was required by law.