White Hall Tavern

The White Hall Tavern was a popular gathering spot in the 1850s.

NPS / Claire Hassler

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Located directly across from the U.S. Armory, the White Hall Tavern was an 1850s community gathering place, where white males debated politics; discussed local events; and protested armory management, wages and layoffs. The tavern's close proximity easily tempted armory workers to raise a glass, or two...or three, before and during work. As a result, Armory officials took a stand that public houses, such as the White Hall Tavern, ruined morals, work ethics, and even threatened armory production. Crowded building conditions posed another threat -- fire. In 1856 the U.S. Government purchased and removed the front section of the building. They subsequently widened the street, creating the needed safety buffer around the Armory.