07/04/2025
As we celebrate July 4, 2025, the focus is on next year and the 250th anniversary of our nation. In the meantime, let’s look at 1775 and the events at General Warren (Admiral Warren at that time) that includes a milestone 200th anniversary for this property (see below)! In July of 1775, the inn was in probate litigation, as owner Lynford Lardner had died a year earlier. Family friend, in-law and current Governor (aka Proprietor) of Pennsylvania John Penn eventually was awarded the inn & property in November 1776. Neither Lardner nor Penn operated the inn, they rented the business to tavernkeepers. One notable keeper: Peter Mather, an alleged loyalist that many locals assumed guided the British troops led by Major General Charles (“No Flint”) Grey to the camp of Anthony Wayne’s troops (The Paoli Massacre) on September 20, 1777. Other intel debunks this rumor and places the blame on a local blacksmith. By the way, “No Flint Grey” was the father of Earl Grey, who’s tea you may have in your pantry today. In 1783, the American Revolution ended, and in 1786, Penn sold the inn to Casper Fahnestock. His family owned and were innkeepers for the next 50 years…….So, what happened 200 years ago in 1825? With the Semicentennial of our new nation in full celebration, this inn was re-named for an American War hero: Dr. General Joseph Warren, killed at Bunker (Breed’s) Hill in Massachusetts in 1775. Hence, the current name General Warren!
We will be having an event later this fall to celebrate this 200-year anniversary of the name change. We will keep you updated. Happy July 4th!
