By Sharon Oliver
Contributing Writer
BOSTON – The Bell in Hand Tavern has lasted longer than nearly any other pub in the United States. 230 years, to be exact. A visit to one of the nation’s oldest pubs often means regulars and tourists alike come for the ale but stay for the tales.
Photo/Wikimedia Commons/Rhododendrites
Founder Jimmy Wilson’s legacy began as Boston’s town crier, a career that lasted for 50 years. However, he went beyond announcing the sale of goods, loss of property, the Declaration of Independence, the Boston Tea Party and the impending Battle of Bunker Hill. Beloved by the city’s children, Wilson would also announce news of missing children.
Later career as pub owner
After retiring from ringing his bell to shout the latest goings-on as the town crier, Wilson, who was not fond of liquor, established The Bell in Hand Tavern in 1795 and managed the watering hole during his latter years. Patrons like Paul Revere and statesman Daniel Webster quickly favored it for a gathering spot to gossip and discuss news. Founding father, influential American Revolution figure and brewer Samuel Adams even contributed by making ale there. The original building was where some say colonists met to plan the American Revolution.
The Bell in Hand Tavern moved around the neighborhood a few times from its original location on Elm Street before finally settling at 45 Union Street. It survived fires and Prohibition but did close due to Prohibition from 1920 to 1933. It was the only time it ever closed. During this time, Boston was known to have hidden tunnels. The tavern also had tunnels that connected to nearby buildings. These secret passages allowed patrons to escape during police raids. Reopening of The Bell was met with joy by many of the city’s males, but not the women, since they were not permitted entry until the late 1960s.
The popular tavern gained a reputation for selling “the best ale in Boston,” attracting newspaper staff, financiers, Harvard professors, sailors, artists and writers and flourished under a succession of keepers. The ale was so thick it was served in two pewter mugs: one for the ale and another for the foam. Taverns were popular places for conducting business, exchanging money and drinking beer since there was a fear of drinking water because it sometimes, particularly in earlier times, carried bacteria.
A tourist favorite
Historical paintings of customers from America’s history adorn the walls and the original bar is still there, offering a slight hint of colonial atmosphere. The menu offerings have also grown to meet the demands of not only the thirsty but the famished as well all while maintaining a classic pub selection. It is where patrons can enjoy anything from figs and brie to a crab cake sandwich.
Several people took to Yelp to share their experiences.
Lacy E. from Las Vegas wrote:
“Fun place to stop in and have a drink in Boston! Great cocktail menu! Really friendly server. Gave us the lowdown on the bar’s history; the whole story is also on their menu too. Lots of good music and happy vibes inside. Right in the center of town; close to Holocaust memorial, Faneuil Hall and many other attractions.”
Travis S. from Dallas added:
“The oldest tavern in America. Rich in history. Really cool ambiance and set up. All types of local beers on tap. If you’re in Boston this is a must stop by and have a drink and toast to the founders of America.”
Mixing old with new, the historically styled pub can comfortably seat 300 people on busy nights, and the second floor has been transformed into a modern nightclub that can hold up to 200 guests. The tavern’s jukebox has an internet connection offering thousands of songs on demand and is a major hit with customers. The venue also hosts several special events throughout the year, including a celebratory Thanksgiving feast.
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