Jean Bonnet Tavern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bonnet's Tavern
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Jean Bonnet Tavern, 2005
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 4 miles (6.4 km) west of Bedford at the junction of U.S. Route 30 and Pennsylvania Route 31, Napier Township, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | c. 1762 |
| Built by | Robert Callender |
| Architectural style | Colonial |
| NRHP reference No. | 79002164 |
| Added to NRHP | August 1, 1979 |
The Jean Bonnet Tavern, also known as Old Forks Inn and Bonnet's Tavern, is a very old and important inn and restaurant. It is located just outside Bedford, Pennsylvania. You can find it where U.S. Highway 30 meets Pennsylvania Route 31.
Contents
A Historic Pennsylvania Inn
The Jean Bonnet Tavern has a long and interesting history. It was built a very long time ago and has seen many changes over the years.
Building a Landmark
The building was first put up around 1762. A man named Robert Callender built it. He was a trader who worked with the Native American tribes in Pennsylvania. Callender bought the land where the tavern stands in 1762.
Later, in 1779, Jean Bonnet bought the land and the building. He then opened it as an inn. An inn is like a hotel and restaurant where travelers can stop to rest, eat, and sleep.
A Meeting Place for History
The Jean Bonnet Tavern became a popular gathering spot. In 1794, it was used by local farmers who were protesting during an event called the Whiskey Rebellion. This was a time when farmers were upset about a new tax on whiskey. They used the tavern as a place to meet and discuss their protests.
Months later, the protests were stopped by forces led by President George Washington. Even though the building has had many different owners over the years, some of Jean Bonnet's direct family members still live today. The Bonnett Family of West Virginia can trace their family history back almost 400 years.
What the Tavern Looks Like
The Jean Bonnet Tavern is a large building. It stands about 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 stories tall. The building is 40 feet wide and 51 feet long. It is made from strong, cut fieldstone. The walls are very thick, more than two feet!
Inside, the building has four levels. These levels together have almost 8,000 square feet of space. The tavern also has two levels of porches. These porches run along the entire front and back of the building. Today, the Jean Bonnet Tavern operates as a bed and breakfast. It is also a tavern and a gift shop.
Recognized for its History
Because of its important history and unique architecture, the Jean Bonnet Tavern was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This means it is recognized as a special place that should be protected for future generations.
