Port Royal in Caroline County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)

The Fox Tavern: A Colonial Landmark

Photographed by Kevin W., July 11, 2012

1. The Fox Tavern: A Colonial Landmark Marker

Inscription. 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.

Erected by Historic Port Royal with

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funding made possible through the sponsorship of the Washington-Lewis Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Colonial Era. In addition, it is included in the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), the Former U.S. Presidents: #01 George Washington, and the George Washington Slept Here series lists. A significant historical date for this entry is January 14, 1838.

Location. 38° 10.25′ N, 77° 11.425′ W. Marker is in Port Royal, Virginia, in Caroline County. It is on King Street, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Port Royal VA 22535, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in the Piedmont

and in Central Virginia.

It is also in the American South,

specifically in the Upper South,

and on the Eastern Seaboard. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture,

one of the original Thirteen Colonies,

The Fox Tavern: A Colonial Landmark and Marker image. Click for full size.

July 11, 2012

2. The Fox Tavern: A Colonial Landmark and Marker

one of the Confederate States of America,

and the Antebellum South.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Port Royal (within shouting distance of this marker); St. Peter's Church (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Dorothy Roy (about 400 feet away); The Earliest Inhabitants: Native Americans (about 500 feet away); a different marker also named Port Royal (about 700 feet away); The Sacred Lot (about 700 feet away); a different marker also named Port Royal (about 700 feet away); Port Royal Harbor (about 800 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Port Royal.

The old Town Hall and Lyceum, under refurbishment image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Kevin W., July 11, 2012

3. The old Town Hall and Lyceum, under refurbishment

Across the street is the remains of the once-stately Town Hall and Lyceum.

Article about the Town Hall restoration. image. Click for full size.

Photographed by Kevin W., July 11, 2012

4. Article about the Town Hall restoration.

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on July 15, 2012, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia. This page has been viewed 3,492 times since then and 204 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on July 15, 2012, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia.