Ear Inn

An official Path Through History Site! This rare surviving Federal style house was built in the late 18th century for James Brown, who is believed to have been a black man and aide to George Washington during the American Revolution. Brown settled in New York after the war and worked as a tobacco trader. Later, during the 19th century, the house became a tavern and brewery and later a bar and restaurant as well as boarding house. The local landmark remains one of the oldest drinking establishments in the city and is open to the public.