Sawyer Tavern

The Sawyer Tavern is located in western Keene, on the north side of Arch Street a short way west of Keene High School. It is a 2+1⁄2-story wood-frame structure, with a gabled roof, two interior chimneys, and a clapboarded exterior. Its main facade is five bays wide, with a symmetrical arrangement of sash windows around the center entrance. The entrance is simply framed, with a four-light transom window above. Extending to the left of the main block is a long single-story ell, which historically housed the tavern's summer kitchen and some horse sheds. A smaller ell, possibly of older construction than the main block, extends to the rear. The interior retains a number of original features, including inside shutters on some windows, but the second-floor ballroom has been partitioned into bedrooms.^[3]

This landmark building was built no later than 1803–06, and has a long record as a tavern and inn in West Keene. Although it is now filled with private residences, it served in both the 19th and 20th centuries as a tavern. It was built by Abraham Wheeler, Jr., a veteran of the American Revolutionary War, and was originally known by his name. His son-in-law Josiah Sawyer later took over the business, and it was subsequently run by his two spinster daughters. The building was used as a tavern until 1883, and was sold out of the family in 1922. It was then operated as a restaurant and tea room until 1950.^[3]

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Cheshire County, New Hampshire