Seven to Save 2022: Bean Tavern

Like most towns in New Hampshire’s early days, town meetings were held in private homes, and better yet, taverns. This was the case in Raymond, where the Bean Tavern started hosting town meetings in 1764. Even after the meetinghouse was built, town business continued to take place here, where the rum was plentiful.

In the decades after the Civil War, historic images suggest the Bean Tavern was abandoned. When the historic home was eventually purchased, renovations were made to modernize it. The large central chimney was replaced with a smaller one, the windows were replaced, and the front door surround was simplified. Changes to some interior finishes were made and a new ell and barn were built to the north.

More recently, the house again fell into disrepair. In 2021, the property was listed for sale as land only. At town meeting, voters approved a measure to purchase the property by a wide margin. It’s on the town seal after all. At the following town meeting in 2022, voters approved expanding the historic district to include the Bean Tavern.

The time has come to study and restore the building for its next chapter. Right now, enthusiasm for the tavern’s rescue is high, but taxpayers have expressed concern about further spending. The building has immediate needs, including a new roof and tree removal, but town leaders and advocates are still exploring potential uses. It is hoped that in the coming months, there will have a clearer picture of the Bean Tavern’s future.

This designation helps highlight the good work Raymond has done so far but will also propel advocates across the finish line.

Stay up to date on this program, including when submissions open for next year’s list, and browse listees from past years (we’ve been highlighting endangered properties since 2006!) by vising the Seven to Save homepage.

Are you part of a group involved with one of our previous listees? We’d love to hear how you’re doing! Call us at (603) 224-2281 or email seventosave@nhpreservation.org.