Jean Martin Simon Bonnett

Born Johan Martin Simon Bonnett, Americanized his name to John. He owned and operated the Jean Bonnett Tavern, built in 1762, after he purchased the property in 1779. It is still in operation today (April 25, 2012).

Jean Bonnet Tavern, Bedford, Pennsylvania Built in 1762 and listed on the National Registry of Historical Places in 1979.

The tavern became a meeting place for the farmers involved in the Whiskey Rebellion. In mid-1794, Pennsylvania farmers, angered by the federal excise tax on whiskey, met here and raised a liberty pole in protest. Then in October 1794, troops summoned by President George Washington camped here on their westward journey to quell the insurrection.

There is little to prove the actual date of the building, but it had served as a French fort and trading post. The building was referred to as being on the way to the Old Shawnese Cabins - present day Shawnee State Park - in trapper and trader accounts for many years before General Forbes stopped there to await reinforcements before beginning a westward campaign in hopes of taking Ft. Duquesne from the French.

Earliest record of this property is noted in a transfer of title of 690 acres from an agent of the William Penn family to Hans Ireland, a land speculator. It was then transferred in 1762 to Robert Callender, an Indian trader. Callender was also a commissary for troop supplies, and later, a scout for General George Washington. This building, with its native stone walls, massive fireplaces, and chestnut beams, was built during Callender's ownership. The namesake, Jean (John) Bonnet, and his wife purchased the property in 1779. In October 1780, Bonnet was issued a license, allowing that "Petitioner lives at the Fork of roads leading to Fort Pitt and the Glades with everything necessary for keeping Public House..."

The above was taken from:

http://www.jeanbonnettavern.com/history.html

http://www.jeanbonnettavern.com/ http://www.innsite.com/inns/B008732.html

He ran an Inn in Bedford and you can see the website here: http://www.jeanbonnettavern.com/index.html

Jean Bonnet Tavern ~ History

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Welcome to a yesteryear experience of old tavern charm. The Jacobs family invites you to share in the long tradition of hospitality, good food, and drink, at this 1760s historic landmark. The flavor of the Jean Bonnet Tavern is traditionally inspired, yet eclectic. Delicious foods are carefully selected, and expertly prepared for a pleasant dining experience.

The Jean Bonnet was destined to play in several historical roles. Due to its location, it became an important haven for early settlers and travelers. It was built on the only road connecting eastern Pennsylvania with the Ohio River and territories beyond, at the junction of the OldForbes and Burd Roads (Routes 30 and 31). Colorful moments were shared when the tavern became a meeting place for the farmers involved in the Whiskey Rebellion. In mid-1794, Pennsylvania farmers, angered by the federal excise tax on whiskey, met here and raised a liberty pole in protest. Then in October 1794, troops summoned by President George Washington camped here on their westward journey to quell the insurrection.

There is little to prove the actual date of the building, but it had served as a French fort and trading post. The building was referred to as being on the way to the Old Shawnese Cabins - present day Shawnee State Park - in trapper and trader accounts for many years before General Forbes stopped there to await reinforcements before beginning a westward campaign in hopes of taking Ft. Duquesne from the French.

Earliest record of this property is noted in a transfer of title of 690 acres from an agent of the William Penn family to Hans Ireland, a land speculator. It was then transferred in 1762 to Robert Callender, an Indian trader. Callender was also a commissary for troop supplies, and later, a scout for General George Washington. This building, with its native stone walls, massive fireplaces, and chestnut beams, was built during Callender's ownership. The namesake, Jean (John) Bonnet, and his wife purchased the property in 1779. In October 1780, Bonnet was issued a license, allowing that "Petitioner lives at the Fork of roads leading to Fort Pitt and the Glades with everything necessary for keeping Public House..."

Since 1780, ownership of the Jean Bonnet has changed hands many times. Most of those recorded as deedholders to the Jean Bonnet maintained the building as a public tavern and inn. Several utilized the property as a private residence. In 1957 the Jean Bonnet was purchased by the Enyeart family. It was during their ownership that stories of hauntings at the Jean Bonnet began to reach the public.

This significant Bedford County building was placed on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Please come and visit us at the Jean Bonnet, then you too will become a part of the historic list of friends and visitors, from far and near. Enjoy the rich heritage, fine dining, and overnight accommodations.

"It is a cool evening and the fire in the restaurant was warming to both the body and soul. This is a really nice place to relax. I just wish the walls could talk........and tell their story!" .....D.I. Narvon, PA

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Kitchen Hours - Tavern Hours May Be Extended Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 9 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am - 10 pm

Dining reservations are recommended but not required during peak weekend hours.

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