Wow, the Broad Axe is an old bar!!! The updated interior and well-appointed bar almost conceal the fact that this establishment has stood in the same place several centuries. Our server gave us a history sheet which states that the Broad Axe was build beside an old Indian path in 1681. You can only imagine the number of historical events that took place both in and just outside the Tavern’s walls. During the American Revolution, for example a British General described his plan to capture the Marquis De Lafayette, a French nobleman serving the American cause. The plan was overheard by the American General James Grant while dining at the Broad Axe, who made sure the plan was thwarted. Lafayette went on to become a great Revolutionary war hero.
George Washington marched by the Broad Axe at least 6 times during his life, and soldiers from both sides of the revolutionary war were buried alongside the road after dying in nearby skirmishes. My favorite story of this place is that the former landowner, George Brisbring stole fifty grave markers from a nearby abandoned cemetery to build the hearth in his adjacent home. The spirits from those graves would apparently gather by his fireside. Brisbring eventually joined those spirits when he died, and they now roam the countryside together.
As if sitting in front of an old fireplace in the 335 year tavern wasn’t enough, we were very satisfied with a nice meal and just one more cold beer. This was a great finale to a busy day, making this the third bar and the third state in one day!
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