Francis Baird was a book maker in New York City and purchased 197 acres of land on the King’s Highway, which was then a major thoroughfare from Newburgh to Morristown, NJ and eventually to Philadelphia. His decision to move to Warwick is believed to have been motivated by onerous taxes levied by King George III on all paper and book times.

At various times, the building was a private residence, an apartment building, a law office, a war-time Red Cross office, an insurance office and a library.

The Tavern:

The original tavern and a small general store were located beside the house; the businesses were very popular due to their convenient location on King’s Highway leading to Newburgh and the Goshen Road toward Florida.

Second Floor:

When there was an event, Francis could raise the wall using a block and tackle on hinges at the ceiling and be held up by iron hooks, creating more space.

Many people stopped in for food, drink and rest including General George Washington, and his wife Martha.

In 1780, Mrs. Washington stayed at the house and slept in the master bedroom.

The Ballroom:

The larger part of the ballroom at one time had a wooden “spring floor” which was made of slats of wood over small springs. It was placed over the main floor and provided a little bounce to the dancing couples.

The Attic:

When the tavern was in operation, Francis Baird charged travelers 10 cents to sleep in the attic of his own home. Local legend states that the militia used the attic as a meeting place to practice their manual of arms, and in order to do this, the wooden attic beams had to be removed to accommodate the 4 ft. guns with bayonets.