The Fox Tavern: A Colonial Landmark
Until the coming of the railroads in the 19th century, the Rappahannock River town of Port Royal was the commercial center of what is now Caroline County, Virginia. Like many ports, it was a raucous place and boasted a disproportionate number of taverns, among them the Fox Tavern. In 1755, Captain William Fox obtained a tavern license, one of 90 issued in Port Royal. Captain Fox was often away at sea, leaving his wife Ann in charge. The Fox Tavern was the most renowned in Port Royal and attracted many colonial notables. When the tavern was sold in 1795, one of its selling points was its "elegant billiard table." George Washington spent the night of January 14, 1760, at a cost of five shillings. The future general must have enjoyed his stay, because the receipt books record at least three later visits, including one on which he not only spent the night and had supper and breakfast for himself, but also bought a stableage and feed for his horse. His total bill—13 shillings 4½ pence. Washington was generous, paying a 100% tip on his two shilling ferriage across the river.
Marker is on King Street, on the right when traveling north.
Courtesy hmdb.org
