“World's Most Complete Neighborpedia”
Sponsor a Community — What is Localism? | Register or Sign In
Explore:   What's happening in your neck of the woods?
Home December's Season of Celebrations and Shar...

December's Season of Celebrations and Sharing- Visit Boykins' Tavern this Saturday in Isle of Wight County

Tavern Holidays: Memories of Christmas Past

Enrich your family's Holiday Season by visiting Historic Boykins' Tavern this Saturday. Learn a little about history and share the appreciation for the past with your kids or grandkids...step back in time and get in the Christmas spirit!

Saturday, December 10 from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m., 17130 Monument Circle

Visit with War of 1812 living historians on the tavern’s lawn before coming inside to admire both colonial and Victorian holiday decorations and learn a bit of holiday history. Also be sure to bring your camera for a visit with a Victorian Santa who will check his list twice for your name. This look into memories of Christmas past will also feature a collection of old toys, refreshments and activities. A perfect holiday event for families and it's free and open to the public.

Boykin’s Tavern was named for Francis Boykin, who served as a lieutenant with Patrick Henry and later camped with George Washington at Valley Forge. It is the only surviving structure associated with the Isle of Wight Courthouse of 1800. Additionally, the tavern, which features architectural details that are rare in rural Virginia, played a significant role in both the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

Boykin’s Tavern is located at 17130 Monument Circle in Isle of Wight. The museum is open March through December from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.

Boykin's Tavern Museum
Isle of Wight County

Picture

Boykin inherited this land in 1780, as well as the house that had stood there since 1762. A smart businessman, he donated land for the Isle of Wight Courthouse of 1800. Conveniently, his tavern was located just next door for meals and refreshments needed by court officers and personnel, curious observers and travelers.

Historic Boykin's Tavern is the only surviving structure associated with the Isle of Wight Courthouse of 1800. Located on one of the oldest thoroughfares in Virginia, Route 258/Courthouse Highway, the tavern provided accommodations during the 18th and 19th centuries when transportation was limited and roadways were marginally functional. Attendant to the courthouse, the tavern served as a meeting place for influential state and local government leaders as well as the center for social activity within the county.


Used as a private home early in the 20th century, the tavern was purchased by the county in 1973. Recognizing the value of such a landmark, Isle of Wight took the initiative to have the tavern placed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.

For further information, contact Isle of Wight County’s Historic Resources Department at (757) 357-0115.

Mark Edwards Facebook LinkMark Edwards Twitter LinkMark Edwards LinkedIn LinkMark Edwards Active Rain LinkMark Edwards YouTube LinkShare Mark Edwards Real Estate News

Posted Wednesday Dec 07