 
Boswell's Tavern
Photograph courtesy of Scenic America:
Deborah L. Myerson |
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A landmark for travelers since
Nicholas Johnson built its earliest section c.1735, this weatherboarded
structure on the edge of the Green Springs Historic
District is one of the state's time-honored rural taverns. It was
purchased in 1761 by Johnson's brother-in-law, John Boswell, who served
as proprietor until his death in 1788. A number of political figures,
including Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and James Madison frequented
the tavern. It served as a headquarters for the Marquis de Lafayette in
1781. British colonel Banastre Tarleton captured colonial troops here
during his attempt to sieze Jefferson. The Marquis de Chastellux made
reference to Boswell's hospitality in his Travels in North America
in the Years 1780, 1781, and 1782. The tavern is divided into two
sections: a public area containing two large public rooms, a warming room,
stair hall, and bar area, and the innkeeper's wing with a winding corner
stair leading to sleeping quarters. The building is now a private residence.
Boswell's Tavern is located on the north side of State Rte. 22,
2/10 of a mile east of the intersection of Rtes. 22 and 15, 4 miles
south of Gordonsville. It is a private residence and is not open to
the public.
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