The oldest original structure in the village, was constructed in 1819 by Alexander
Patteson as a stop over for stage travelers along the
Richmond - Lynchburg Road.
In April 1865, the Tavern and it's associated
outbuildings was owned by Wilson Hix, whose son Billy
was the county sheriff.
At the time of the surrender Brigadier General George H. Sharpe Assistant U. S. Provost Marshall made the Tavern his headquarters. Sharpe was designated by Lt.General Grant to oversee the printing of parole passes, 28,231 of which would be issued to Confederate troops. The passes were intended to allow the veterans of General Lee's Army to travel unmolested through other military districts to their homes throughout the south.
joe_williams@nps.gov