Fairfax Minute Book

Fairfax Minute Book

Fairfax County

This entry in the minute book reveals that courts set the rates for taverns. On March 3rd of 1807, the Court recorded the rates for Liquors for tavern keepers. The list includes rates for “a warm dinner with cider beer,” English or American porter, apple brandy, and “one night’s lodgings with clean sheets.” It also offered pastures for horses. Anyone who did not display their tavern’s rates would be subject to a court ordered fine. This entry reveals that the courts were responsible for the rates charged at taverns, and that they were strict in maintaining them and alerting travelers of what they would be required to pay. This allowed for travelers to pay a fair amount for their stay, as well as protecting tavern keepers from customers, since presumably if one’s rates are on display, then one can request help from the law if a customer tries to get away with paying less.

Fairfax County Court

Fairfax County Historic Records Center

Fairfax County Court

1807

Kira Stalker