The Sussex Tavern 

Located on the campus of the Lewes Historical Society, the Sussex Tavern has evolved into more than just a gathering place for the community. It has become the heartbeat of Historic Lewes. From our First Fridays to Shanty Night, to our daily hours, The Sussex Tavern is the focal point. During our events, the Sussex is a gathering place, a watering hole, a cooling station, and an entertainment venue. Dating between c. 1740 to c. 1760 the Sussex Tavern is one of the few intact examples of a form prevalent in Lewes and Sussex County during the late-18th century with architectural elements  influenced by the building traditions of the diverse cultures that inhabited Lewes.
 
Modeled after the original Sussex Tavern that sat on Second Street from 1799 to 1817, our tavern has grown from an historical curiosity to a business that straddles the 18th to the 21st Centuries. 
While the physical building needs maintenance and upgrades, The business side of it must be present in the 21st century with equipment, supplies, and band contracts. 

Some of our needs are:
Repairs to all existing doors and stoops
Exit door from the barroom 
ADA Handicap Ramp
Upgraded HVAC and electrical
Foundation work
Sound equipment and funding for our Tavern Talks program, so we can provide historical drama to schools and libraries at little or no cost.
Improved storage area

While these projects are costly, we are striving to raise $20,000 through this initiative so that we can continue this process of re-imagination for the Tavern, which will touch every other part of Historic Lewes.  We are so grateful for your generous support!