On June 20, 1821, 34-year old Bela Squire purchased a house, barns, and 380 acres of farmland along the west branch of the Farmington River in Barkhamsted, Connecticut (100 East River Road). He was one of six taverners for the Town of Barkhamsted, operated a blacksmith shop next to his tavern, and was active in Barkhamsted town affairs. For forty years, Bela raised his large family on this land running a successful farm and tavern until his death on October 5, 1861.
Today the Squire's Tavern is home to the Barkhamsted Historical Society whose goal is to "preserve and disseminate the history and culture of the Town of Barkhamsted." The Tavern is bustling with restoration activities including new installations, archival work, and structural improvements. Through the efforts of many volunteers, the Tavern is a lively, evolving tribute to historical life in this rural community.
