THE TAVERNS
Centers of American Life

Colonists gathered in the taverns and inns to discuss recent news and ongoing issues, and of course to eat and drink. Wine, hard cider, beer and rum flowed freely, although outbursts of violence were rarely seen. The colonists' heavy drinking habits were justified by fear of polluted water supplies and belief in alcohol's medicinal properties.

Ham and mutton were the favored meats. Bread, cheese and vegetables were readily available - but tomatoes were considered poisonous! There was no understanding of vitamins, however, sailors had discovered that fruit could prevent scurvy and dysentery. Food contained no chemical preservatives, so perishable foods were salted, pickled, or soaked in liquor to prevent spoilage.