William Rand Tavern, historic commercial building in Virginia, United States
The William Rand Tavern is a colonial-era inn in Smithfield, Virginia, consisting of two stories with five sections across its facade and built of brick and wood. The building features a metal hip roof, brick chimneys at each end, and was originally constructed around 1752 with an addition built in the 1920s.
The building was constructed around 1752 and opened as a tavern in 1759, operating as such until the mid-1800s. Christ Episcopal Church later acquired the property, subsequently sold it, and it was reestablished as an inn during the 1920s.
The William Rand Tavern bears the name of its original proprietor and reflects the role such establishments played as gathering places in colonial times. Visitors today can see the simple furnishings and understand how travelers and locals met here to exchange news and stories.
The building is located on West Main Street and can be seen from the public street, though many historic properties are private and cannot be entered. Visitors should expect to view the exterior and admire the facade, as interior access may be limited.
The building was originally operated as a tavern, but Christ Episcopal Church acquired it and significantly altered its purpose before it was converted back into a commercial space. This unusual sequence of ownership changes and use transformations shows how a single building can lead multiple lives over time.
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