Downes Tavern¹

The Downes Tavern was erected by George Downes in 1820 on the former site of Upham's Tavern, which had burnt down the previous year. The tavern served as the annual meeting place for the Norfolk County Universalist Society from 1820 until 1827; during this time, it also served as the town's post office. In 1824, the famous magician Robert Potter performed at the tavern; he would give a repeat performance there in 1833. In 1825, the tavern was used for religious services while a new meetinghouse was being built; that same year, a grand ball took place there. In 1831 and 1832, the tavern is mentioned as containing a store with a liquor license. At various points in time, the tavern served as a meeting place for Canton's selectmen and the Proprietors of the Common Field Meadows. In 1840, George Downes moved out of the tavern to the Downes farm on Pleasant Street. In 1845, the tavern became the private residence of Benjamin Huntoon; it remains a private home to this day.

Resources¹

Historic Homes of Canton, vol. I: Canton Corner by Patricia Johnson, 109-116.

History of the Town of Canton, Norfolk County, Massachusetts, by Daniel T. V. Huntoon. 218-219, 276, 553, 562.