Gadsby’s Tavern Museum has an extensive photographic collection that contains more than 10,000 photographic images documenting the Tavern’s history. Topics include:

The Civil War - During this period the two buildings still maintained their basic 18th-century appearance even though small changes were made to the exterior of the Tavern and City Hotel.

20th-Century Renovation - Restoration projects in the early 20th-century by local organizations to create an authentic 18th-century tavern and City Hotel.

Furnishing Re-interpretation - Photographs document the various refurnishings of the Tavern and City Hotel exhibit spaces.

Special Events - Documentation of special events that occurred at Gadsby’s Tavern during the 20th- century include: George Washington’s Birthnight Ball, 18th-century military drills, and fairs.

Objects - The largest number of photographs document the museum’s collection of objects.

Education Programs - Photographs of the elementary education program illustrate children’s activities at Gadsby’s.

Other Events - Gadsby’s Tavern was used as a meeting place in the 18th-century and is still used today for lectures, demonstrations, and receptions.

Highlights of the Photographic Collection

"Learning to bow," Children’s Day (Click to enlarge)

In the 1930's the tavern and city hotel were refurnished in the colonial revival style. (Click to enlarge)

The City Hotel may have been used as a hospital by the Union Army during the Civil War. (Click to enlarge)