Taverns: “Entertainment for Man and Beast”

Presented by Merri Lou Schaumann

As part of the “Countdown to the 225th Anniversary of the Whiskey Rebellion, and the publication of the updated version of her book Taverns of Cumberland County, 1750-1840, Merri Lou Schaumann will bring the old tavern to life again. Taverns played a vital role in American life. They not only provided food and shelter for travelers, but they were also the cultural, political, military, medical and civic centers of the community and surrounding countryside. They provided a place to learn the latest dances, see a production of “Romeo and Juliet,” have your cancer “cured,” teeth pulled, horse bred or simply enjoy a game of cards, a bowl of punch and some conversation.