From its vantage point on the town common, now called the Lexington Battle Green, Buckman Tavern played a pivotal role in the first days of the American Revolution.

The tavern was constructed circa 1710 by Benjamin Muzzey, who opened the building as the first public house in Lexington, Massachusetts. By the time of the revolution, the property had passed to Muzzey’s great-grandson-in-law John Buckman. Buckman was a member of the Lexington militia, so his tavern became a natural gathering place for the Patriots who trained on Lexington Green. In the wee hours of April 19, 1775, Captain John Parker and his militia gathered at Buckman Tavern to await the arrival of British troops for the subsequent Battle of Lexington.

The tavern remained a popular watering hole throughout the 18th century. It served as a store and a post office before it was ultimately purchased by the Lexington Historical Society. Today the tavern operates as a museum where guests can view the fully restored 18th century taproom with large fireplace and central chimney. Among the many items on display is the old front door, with a hole thought to be made by a British musket ball during the battle.

Buckman Tavern was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1961.