Tavern

In 1821, “the public square” referred to a very large swatch of land. According to early maps, the square was roughly 30 acres stretching from Palafox to Alcaniz streets - almost the entirety of the UWF Historic Trust’s holdings today. Within that square were several buildings, such as the customs house, old commanding officers compound, and a theatre which came to be known as the Tivoli High House. By the time Jackson arrived, the city had already started connecting streets through the square and subdividing the large green space. Citizens of the city in 1820 enjoyed a fresh pint just as we do today. There were several taverns around town. Two that advertised often were the Eagle Tavern and Austin’s Tavern. The Eagle Tavern had rooms for rent, a bath house, and even a bowling alley to entertain guests.