History of Hanover Tavern Foundation

The Tavern has been a vibrant center of community life at Hanover Courthouse for almost three hundred years. It remains a community centerpiece through the Foundation’s continuing efforts to preserve the building and share its past history.

In 1990, the non-profit Hanover Tavern Foundation bought the Tavern and 3.5 acres from the Barksdale Theatre owners and began to raise the needed money to stabilize and restore the aging building. The Foundation’s goal was to restore, preserve and utilize the Tavern as an historical, educational, community and cultural resource center for the general public. After successful fundraising campaigns and completion of the restoration, the building reopened to the public in 2005.

Today we produce well over 40 events and programs per year including bus tours, concerts, presentations, tours, dinners, and paranormal investigations. The nationally recognized Virginia Repertory Theatre continues to offer riveting performances. And, as always, Hanover Tavern Restaurant & Pub offers dining and accommodations for private events and receptions.

The Foundation looks forward to an exciting future thanks to great volunteers, foundation and government grants, and donations from visitors and members of the community.