The Griswold Inn, located in Essex, Connecticut, is the oldest continuously run tavern in the United States of America. Founded by three brothers in the late 18th century and named after the Griswold Family of the area, it has been under the stewardship of only six families. The inn was captured by British troops and used as a base of operations during the War of 1812. During prohibition the inn still maintained a lively entertainment schedule for the local yachtsmen. Over the years several surrounding buildings were added to the inn complex, each with its own unique history.