Springhouse Tavern in Gettysburg highlights colonial experience
Gettysburg is most strongly associated with the Civil War and the famous battle that permanently affected the history of the town. The proprietors of one of the first homes in Gettysburg, however, put down roots in the Revolutionary War era. The Springhouse Tavern at the Dobbin House is Gettysburg’s primary example of homes from this time—the Dobbin family even chose to build the house over a spring, allowing for a continuous supply of fresh water, even in the event of an attack from local tribes.
Visitors to the Springhouse Tavern can still view that vital spring today; the sound of water permeates the establishment. The spring sits behind a closed door with a glass window, allowing visitors to take a peek at the resource. The home was also one of the initial northern points on the Underground Railroad and features a reconstructed slave hideaway.
The Springhouse Tavern is located in the basement of the Dobbin House, which originally served as a home to Reverend Alexander Dobbin, his wife and 19 kids. The building did take damage during the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War and was used as a field soldier for men serving on both sides of the battle.
The ambiance of the colonial tavern is entirely authentic and comparable to similar establishments in Philadelphia and Boston. The entirety of the Dobbin House has been reconstructed to match its original feel. The tavern features dim aerial lighting—the primary light source being candles throughout the room. This allows visitors to view the tavern in its true colonial form. The tavern contains a fully-stocked bar.
Servers dress in attire that balances a representation of the colonial era and the practicality necessitated by kitchen work and navigation in an area lit by flame. The parchment menu itself is clever—most of the fare is modern and wholesome, though it is written in colonial fashion. (You may wish to order a Spinache Sallade, for example.)
The food at the Springhouse Tavern is especially fresh. Do not miss the chance to experience the warm bread available here. You’ll find a healthy balance of hearty foods and lighter fare on the menu. Chefs are not shy about adding dressing and garnishes, so ask if you prefer something without too much spice or dressing.
The Springhouse Tavern offers clean, private bathrooms and the staff allow visitors to roam authorized areas in the tavern and house to learn more about its role in history.
To enter the tavern, use the entrance on your right (if entering from parking lot), following the arrow on the informational sign.
Visitors may park in the Dobbin House’s lot at no additional cost.
HelloMetro Tip: Photos of the Springhouse Tavern are illuminated with camera flash to provide you with a clear view and details of the tavern. Please view the video to get a more accurate representation of the tavern’s ambiance.
Posted by Tara M. Clapper
