Ennyman's Territory: Photos from America's Oldest Tavern, Courtesy Gary Firstenberg

"America's Photographer" Gary Firstenberg sent me these fotos from America's oldest tavern. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, here's how they describe their mission:

The White Horse Tavern

est. 1673

At the White Horse Tavern, we strive to create a fresh, contemporary culinary experience in “America’s Oldest Tavern.”

Originally opened in 1673, our restaurant exudes colonial charm, but we are anything but dated. Our culinary team brings a wealth of culinary experience and passion to the kitchen. In our historic dining rooms, enjoy our sophisticated and local cuisine along with extensive wine pairings from around the world. Join us for a taste of 21st century Rhode Island in a colonial tavern that’s been serving locals and visitors for over 350 years.

The menu is a show-stopper in my opinion. You can find it on their website.

Beef Wellington.

* * *

Here's a little background on Rhode Island that I found interesting.

Rhode Island was founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, a religious dissenter who was banished from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Williams founded the colony of Providence Plantations, which later became the state of Rhode Island. Rhode Island was a unique colony in that it was founded on the principle of religious freedom. Williams believed that people should be free to worship as they pleased, and he established a colony where people of all religions could live together in peace.

Rhode Island was the first colony to declare independence from England in 1776, though it was not the first state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. That honor belongs to Delaware, which ratified the Constitution on December 7, 1787. Rhode Island was the ninth state to ratify the Constitution, on May 29, 1790.

* * *