Two hundred and eighty-four years ago, a home was built for a merchant named Stephen Delancy at 54 Pearl Street in Downtown Manhattan. Since then, it has been converted into the offices for the Continental Army’s Department of War, the site where George Washington gave his farewell address – and a Landmark tavern and museum – where I am currently doing exactly what our first President did hundreds of years earlier – relaxing with a pad, a pen and a glass of ale.

The oldest bar in the City, The Fraunces Tavern and Museum is a place that everyone who lives and comes to New York City should visit. Rich in food, drink and history, it houses sixteen ounce New York Strip that are aged for twenty-one days – along with letters written by John Quincy Adams that are one hundred and sixty years old. In each of its six rooms, reminders of our Nation’s past decorate the walls, including paintings of well known historical moments, vintage stocks and bonds dating back to the early 1900’s – and even the building’s original drawings and architectural notes.

I know of no other tavern in New York City where you could enjoy a good drink, a great meal – and a lesson in American history. The restaurant is open every day except Sunday, and the Museum is open every day except Sunday and Monday, and houses various treasures from The Revolutionary War, including muskets, flags and important historical documents. In addition, the Museum hosts special events which include lunchtime lectures on such subjects as “The Battle Of Brooklyn,” evening programs on topics that include “How Slavery United The Colonies And Sparked The American Revolution,” as well as holiday open houses – and the restaurant even has dinner theater, which premiered tonight.

Tonight is the first time I have ever been here. I arrived at 4:00pm to have lunch with my friend Diane and have remained here until closing. Besides being impressed by the very tasty Caesar Salad and aforementioned New York Strip Steak that could not have been more tender – I was taken back by the historical artifacts and historically accurate architecture. I have always been a history buff, I am obsessed with our nation’s past and the trials and tribulations of those that came before us – and if you are like me – then the Fraunces Tavern is the perfect place to quench your thirst, satisfy your stomach – and meet your forefathers.