Caldwell Tavern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Caldwell Tavern
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The tavern in August, 2014
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jct. of US 40 and TR 474, Buffalo Township, Claysville, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1840 |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| MPS | National Road in Pennsylvania MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 96000087 |
| Added to NRHP | February 16, 1996 |
The Caldwell Tavern is a very old and important building located in Claysville, Pennsylvania. It was built way back in 1840. This historic place is officially recognized as a special landmark by the Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation. This means it's a building with a lot of history that people want to protect and remember.
Contents
What is a Tavern?
A tavern was like a hotel, restaurant, and meeting place all rolled into one. In the 1800s, when the Caldwell Tavern was built, people traveled mostly by horse or wagon. Long journeys were tiring and slow. Taverns like Caldwell Tavern offered a place for travelers to rest, eat a meal, and sometimes even stay overnight. They were important stops along busy roads.
The National Road
The Caldwell Tavern was built along a very important route called the National Road. This road was one of the first major improved highways in the United States. It helped people and goods move across the country. Because the tavern was on such a busy road, it would have seen many travelers, including pioneers, merchants, and even famous people.
A Place for Travelers
Imagine what it was like back then! Travelers would arrive at the tavern, tired from their journey. They could get a warm meal, perhaps a bed for the night, and a place to stable their horses. Taverns were also places where people exchanged news and stories from different towns. They were vital for communication and community in early America.
Architectural Style
The Caldwell Tavern is built in a style called Greek Revival. This was a popular architectural style in the United States during the early to mid-1800s.
What is Greek Revival?
Greek Revival architecture was inspired by the ancient temples of Greece. Buildings in this style often feature:
- Tall, stately columns
- Simple, elegant shapes
- A focus on balance and symmetry
The Caldwell Tavern shows some of these features, giving it a grand and classic look. It was a common style for important public buildings and homes during that time.
A Historic Landmark
The Caldwell Tavern is not just an old building; it's a piece of history. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 16, 1996.
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worthy of preservation. It's like a special club for buildings, sites, and objects that are important to American history. When a building is on this list, it means it has special historical, architectural, or archaeological value. It helps protect these places for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
Why is Caldwell Tavern Important?
The Caldwell Tavern is important because it shows us what life was like for travelers and communities in the 1800s. It represents a time when roads like the National Road were new and exciting, connecting different parts of the country. By preserving buildings like the Caldwell Tavern, we keep a link to our past alive.
