John Parker Tavern

The John Parker Tavern is a historic building located at 2 Morristown Road (U.S. Route 202) in the borough of Bernardsville in Somerset County, New Jersey. Originally known as the Vealtown Tavern, it was frequently used by Continental Army soldiers during the American Revolutionary War. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 14, 1978 for its significance in commerce, military history, and local history.[3]

John Parker Tavern
John Parker Tavern is located in Somerset County, New Jersey
John Parker Tavern
John Parker Tavern is located in New Jersey
John Parker Tavern
John Parker Tavern is located in the United States
John Parker Tavern
Location2 Morristown Road, Bernardsville, New Jersey
Coordinates40°43′07″N 74°34′06″W
Area0.5 acres (0.20 ha)
NRHP reference No.78001796[1]
NJRHP No.2479[2]
Significant dates
Added to NRHPDecember 14, 1978
Designated NJRHPApril 15, 1978

History

While the exact date of construction is unknown, the tavern was built before the Revolutionary War and owned by Captain John Parker (1747–1781)[4] until his death. American General Anthony Wayne was a frequent guest while in the area. Another guest, known as Dr. Byram, was really Aaron Wilde, a British spy in the area, who was eventually captured and hanged as a spy. It continued operating as a tavern until 1840, when it was sold to Roderick Alexander Kitchell, who used it as a private residence.[3] In 1903, the building became the Bernardsville Public Library. In 1999, it was sold for commercial use.[5]

Description

The tavern is a one and one-half story structure with a gable roof and a one story full length portico. It was modified in 1903, with a one story addition in the rear and in 1969, with a two story addition.[3]

See also

References
  1. "National Register Information System – (#78001796)". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. November 2, 2013.
  2. "New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places – Somerset County" (PDF). New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection – Historic Preservation Office. September 28, 2021. p. 2.
  3. Cavnar, Valerie Barnes (April 1978). "National Register of Historic Places Inventory/Nomination: John Parker Tavern". National Park Service. With accompanying two photos
  4. "Parker, John". DAR Genealogy Research. Daughters of the American Revolution.
  5. "Downtown Bernardsville Walking Tour" (PDF). Bernardsville, New Jersey. originally called the Vealtown Tavern
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