Salem Tavern, Historic tavern in Old Salem Historic District, North Carolina, US.
Salem Tavern is a two-and-a-half-story brick building in Old Salem designed to serve both lodging and dining needs. The ground floor featured public rooms where meals were served, while the upper floors contained private sleeping quarters for overnight guests and a separate kitchen in the rear.
The building was constructed in 1784 from brick after a fire destroyed the original tavern on the site. Its solid brick construction represented an important shift toward more durable buildings in the developing settlement.
The tavern was managed by the Moravian Church and served as a gathering point where travelers mixed with townspeople in shared spaces. This arrangement reflected how the community organized daily commerce and hospitality together.
The building is open to visitors as part of Old Salem Museums & Gardens with knowledgeable guides available for tours. Wearing comfortable shoes is helpful since exploring this site involves walking through multiple historic buildings and outdoor areas.
The building was the first structure in Old Salem constructed entirely of brick, making it a milestone in the town's building history. Mason Johann Gottlob Krause designed distinctive features like vaulted ceilings and stone floors in the kitchen that show the craftsmanship of the time.
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