The J. Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock is said to be the oldest and continuously operating restaurant west of the Mississippi River, and the historic site will be operated by an area organization beginning next year.
According to a news release, the Friends of Arrow Rock recently entered into a cooperative agreement with Missouri State Parks to manage the J. Huston Tavern beginning January 1, 2019. The organization anticipates opening the restaurant for the 2019 season in March.
In 1834, the J. Huston Tavern was established to provide respite for travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. The tavern reportedly is the first building in the state purchased with public funds for the purpose of historic preservation.
The historic site has special meaning for the Friends of Arrow Rock as the organization was founded during a statewide meeting of the Daughters of the American Revolution on June 14, 1959, a meeting which took place at the J. Huston Tavern.
Since its inception, the Friends of Arrow Rock have helped promote the understanding of Missouri’s history, especially the town of Arrow Rock’s history, through education programs and activities scheduled at the town.
To learn more, visit FriendsofArrowRock.org and mostateparks.com.