Historic Tavern To Become A Starbucks

A historical Maryland tavern that was a favorite haunt of George Washington in the 18th century and jazz guitarist Charlie Byrd in the 20th is close to becoming home to a Starbucks Corp. coffee shop.

The Annapolis Historical Preservation Commission on Tuesday approved architectural plans for the shop after its members received assurances the site's history will be respected and that it will be wheelchair accessible.

"This is the last hoop for them to jump through," said Jean Tullier, a spokeswoman for Remington Hotels, manager of the 18th century-style inn, after the commission approved an architect's design allowing for wheelchair-lift access.

The proposed Starbucks is the final step in the renovation of the 44-room hotel on Church Circle.

The building, originally the King of France Tavern, was a haunt of American patriots and revolutionaries. Parts of it still have the original brick floor, stone walls and cooking fireplace.

According to local lore, Washington once lost a horse in a game of cards there.

In the 1970s, it was the site of a jazz club featuring nationally known artists such as Charlie Byrd and Dave Brubeck.

Tullier said Starbucks will work to preserve remnants of both histories, including 18th-century architectural features and artifacts and recordings from the jazz club's heyday.