Like any colonial location in Philadelphia, PA, City Tavern is bound to have a few spirits. First established in 1773 by the city, the tavern had 5 levels, which included a bar, coffee rooms, dining rooms, kitchens, and servants’ quarters. It’s a place famous for housing and hosting many of the most-valued players in the American Revolution.
Paul Revere arrived at the tavern in 1774 to announce the closing of the port of Boston. The same year, the tavern hosted unofficial gatherings of the first Continental Congress, which included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. It housed prisoners of war for both sides from 1776-1777, and was the location for America’s first 4th of July celebration in 1777. For many years onward, City Tavern was the site of war planning, political meetings, and celebrations.
The tavern burned down in 1834, and the ground remained razed until it was rebuilt in honor of the Bicentennial celebrations in 1977. The new building is historically accurate, thanks to detailed records and drawings of the old building. It is technically owned by the NPS as part of Independence National Historic Park, and is operated by Emmy-award winning Chef Walter Staib. It is considered one of the best restaurants in Philadelphia.
City Tavern is home to two spirits, who seem to have stayed around even when the original building didn’t. The first is a former waiter, who apparently died in a bar brawl in the original building. Staib attributes moving and missing table settings to him.
The second spirit is that of the legendary bride who burned down City Tavern in the first place. While at the tavern preparing for her upcoming nuptials, a candle flame caught on a curtain, and ignited the roof. She and her bridesmaids were killed in the fast-spreading fire. Her spirit has been seen inside the tavern, wandering in the wedding dress her almost-husband never got to see. She has also been seen staring out the windows on several occasions.