The 15 Oldest Bars in the United States

11. The Tavern

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Address: 222 E Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, United States

Established: 1779

You’d never think that a bar with such a simple name is actually dotted with a rather colorful history. It was built in 1779 in Abingdon’s oldest building. It started as what it is today – a tavern and an inn. History decided to rewrite its role and it became a bank, bakery, general store, barber shop, cabinet shop, private home, post office, antique store, and of course, a restaurant. It’s certainly a mouthful for just a tavern. During the civil war, it also served wounded soldiers and became a makeshift hospital. The bar certainly passed the test of time. You’ll see bits and pieces of history the moment you walk in, but there’s no denying that it now aims to serve quality food and drinks to its loyal patrons and new customers.