As a Tavern and Stagecoach stop, this early 19th-century hotel was the scene of auctions, public meetings, elections, business transactions, entertainment, horse breeding and a host of other activities. The handsome Federal style inn contains a taproom, two parlors, 12 bedrooms and a kitchen wing with a working fireplace. Originally a house and store, the 1790s structure was adapted to tavern use in 1798. A circa 1820 addition created the imposing building that stands today, its four stories making it a rare example of an early public house. The smaller, mid-18th century Terrill Tavern was moved to the property in the 1970s where it now stands as the museum shop.

Four Centuries Weekend Oct 16-17:

• Tours of the museum
• Tours of selected gravesites in Rahway Cemetery, including: Abraham Clark, a signer of the Declaration of Independence; the “Unknown Woman;” and Ambo, an enslaved woman
• Handouts showing locations of commemorative trees standing in the County Park on St. Georges Ave. (near the museum)