White Horse Tavern (Boston, Massachusetts)
The White Horse was a tavern in Boston, Massachusetts, in the 17th and 18th centuries. A well-known gathering place in colonial Boston, it "had a large square sign projecting over the footway, on which was delineated a white charger." Located near Boylston Street, the White Horse was frequently mentioned as a wayfinder to other establishments nearby.
A number of taverns were clustered on old Newbury Street in the 18th century: Lamb Tavern, Liberty Tavern, and Red Lion. For at least some years of its existence, possibly around 1798, the White Horse building "was of wood and of two stories," with 26 windows.
Prior to 1700, the White Horse was owned by the William Colburn family. Under the ownership of Thomas Brattle, the tavern was managed by Thomas Chamberlain, and William Cleeres. After Brattle, the tavern was owned by Jonathan Dwight. Managers included Mrs. Moulton. The next owner was Joseph Morton. In May, 1787, Israel Hatch of Attleboro took over as manager of the tavern. Subsequent owners included Joseph Morton's son, Perez Morton ; and Aaron Emmes.
The White Horse is featured in a scene in the novel The Rebels: Or, Boston Before the Revolution by Lydia Maria Child.
