"Built by John Stavers in 1770, as a tavern, with the sign of the Earl of Halifax. It was the principal hotel in the town. For a time it was the chief rendezvous of the tory party, and in 1777 was attacked by a mob and much injured. When fitted up again the sign was changed to William Pitt, and it was called the Pitt Hotel, giving its name to the street. Mr. Stavers became friendly to the cause of the nation, and often entertained the officers of the Revolution at his house. It was for many years the chief hostelry of the town, and here were entertained most of the distinguished guests of our early days—Lafayette and the officers of the French fleet, Hancock, Knox, and a long list of worthies. In 1789 it was here that Washington took leave of the State authorities after his visit.

"The Halifax hotel referred to in Longfellow’s poem of 'Lady Wentworth,' is not this one, but one previously kept by Mr. Stavers on Queen street, now State street. While there, in 1761, he commenced running a weekly stage coach to Boston, which is supposed to have been the first one run in America. It was called the 'Flying Stage Coach,' and carried but three passengers. It left Portsmouth Monday morning, stopped that night in Ipswich, and left Boston on its return Thursday morning. When Mr. Stavers occupied the hotel on Pitt street, the coach was kept in the large stable still standing."

Excerpted from The Portsmouth Guide Book, 1896, by Sarah Haven Foster.

Inscription reads, "Stavers Hotel, Court St., 1770."