Michie Tavern Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Michie Tavern
U.S. National Register of Historic Places


Location	Albemarle County, Virginia
Nearest city	Charlottesville
Built	1784
NRHP reference No.	86003913
Added to NRHP	1986

Michie Tavern (say "Mickey") is a really old building in Albemarle County, Virginia. It's a special place listed as a Virginia Historic Landmark. A Scotsman named William Michie started it way back in 1784.

This tavern was once the main gathering spot for its community. It offered food, drinks, and a place to sleep for travelers. The Michie family owned and ran the tavern until 1910. Later, in 1927, a woman named Josephine Henderson bought it. She had the entire building moved about seventeen miles to where it stands today, near Monticello.

History of Michie Tavern
- Early Days and Michie Family
- Moving to a New Home
What is Michie Tavern Today?
- Exploring the Shops
Gallery
See also

History of Michie Tavern

Early Days and Michie Family

The story of Michie Tavern began in 1746. Major John Henry sold some land in northern Albemarle County to John Michie. His son, William Michie, later inherited this land. William built a house there.

Many people who traveled through the area would stop at William's house. They often needed food and a place to rest. Because so many travelers came, William got a special license in 1784. This allowed him to officially run a tavern, which was like an inn and restaurant.

The Michie family continued to own and operate the tavern for many years. In 1910, the last Michie family member to own it, Sally Michie, could no longer take care of the business. The property then became owned by the state of Virginia.

Moving to a New Home

In 1927, Josephine Henderson bought Michie Tavern. She had a big interest in old things and wanted a place to show off her large collection of antiques. She decided to move the entire tavern building.

The tavern was carefully taken apart, piece by piece. Then, it was moved to its current spot. This new location is much closer to Monticello, the famous home of Thomas Jefferson. From 1932, the building was even used as an office by an architect named Milton Gregg.

What is Michie Tavern Today?

Today, Michie Tavern is more than just one building. It is a group of historic buildings that have been put back together. It includes a museum where you can learn about the past. There is also a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal.

Michie Tavern has the largest collection of reassembled historic buildings in Albemarle County. Even though it was moved, it still feels like an 18th-century inn. You can explore the old pub and several unique shops.

Exploring the Shops

When you visit Michie Tavern, you can step back in time. There are several shops that look like they did long ago. The General Store offers many interesting items. You can also find special gifts at the Tavern Shop. The Artisan Shop shows off handmade crafts. And at The Metal Smith Shop, you can see how things were made from metal.