Most Wareham citizens are familiar with the Fearing Tavern located on Elm Street. Did you know that stage coach travelers often stopped at the tavern/inn which could accommodate quite a few people at a time? It was not unusual for strangers to share beds, and if there were no beds left, weary travelers slept on straw mattresses on the floor. Visitors also enjoyed food and drink in the “Publik Room.”

According to local history books, the original dwelling was built around 1690 and owned by Isaac Bump, the miller. Israel Fearing bought the property from him in 1747, and for many years it was operated by his son Benjamin. An addition was made in 1765 including a second story. A final addition was made in 1820 so that currently there are 16 period rooms in the Tavern. Over the years, the Tavern was closed and settled into a state of disrepair.

The property remained in the Fearing family for over 200 years. Today, the Fearing Tavern is owned by the Wareham Historical Society who oversaw a major renovation of the property in 1958. The Tavern is open on Saturdays and Sundays in July and August or by appointment and will be open for tours during the Summer of Celebration festivities.