The Hope and Anchor Tavern[1] (formerly known as the Hope and Anchor Hotel, the Alexandra, the Whale Fishery, and simply the Hope) is a historic public house located in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It was established in 1807, and holds one of the oldest pub licenses in Australia. However, its claim to be the oldest continuously licensed pub is sometimes contested due to periods of closure.[2][3]
| Hope and Anchor Tavern | |
|---|---|
 | |
 | |
| Former names | Hope and Anchor Hotel |
| General information | |
| Type | Pub |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| Location | Hobart, Tasmania, Australia |
| Construction started | 1807 |
| Completed | 1807 |
| Owner | John Kelly (2023) |
History
editThe tavern has undergone several name changes since its opening, reflecting its connection to Hobart's maritime past. The establishment was originally a popular venue for sailors and traders arriving at Hobart's port. During the 19th century, it was known as the Whale Fishery, a name linked to the city’s role in the whaling industry during the colonial period.[4]
The building is an example of Georgian architecture, with many of its original features remaining intact. It has been referenced in several historical accounts, including the memoirs of Captain A.E. Sykes.[5] Over time, the tavern has undergone restoration efforts to maintain its structural integrity and historical appearance.
Ownership and restoration
editIn recent years, the pub has changed ownership multiple times. For many years, it was owned by Gunter Jaeger, who collected antiques and artefacts that are displayed inside the tavern.[6] In 2022, local businessman John Kelly, known for restoring heritage buildings such as Soundy’s Building and the State Cinema, purchased the property. Kelly became the licensee in February 2023.[7] His restoration plans include an archaeological dig on the adjoining vacant land, which could potentially uncover artefacts from Hobart's early colonial period.[8]
Heritage listing
editThe Hope and Anchor Tavern has been listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register since 1998. The listing recognises the tavern’s historical significance and its well-preserved Georgian design.[9] It remains a key attraction for both locals and visitors, contributing to Hobart’s heritage tourism.
Controversy over age
editThe Hope and Anchor Tavern is often referred to as Australia’s oldest pub, but this claim has been disputed by the Bush Inn in New Norfolk. The Bush Inn, established in 1815, has operated continuously since its opening, whereas the Hope and Anchor has experienced periods of closure while retaining its licence.[10]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ "Welcome to Hope & Anchor". hopeandanchor.com.au. Hope and Anchor Tavern. Retrieved 6 February 2015.
- ^ "Historical Tasmanian Newspaper text from February 1804". Archived from the original on 16 March 2015. Retrieved 15 November 2014.
- ^ "New hope for the old anchor". The Mercury. 22 February 2014. Retrieved 6 February 2015.
- ^ Maxwell-Stewart, Hamish (2008). Closing Hell's Gates: The Death of a Convict Station. Allen & Unwin. ISBN 9781741751947.
{{cite book}}: Check|isbn=value: checksum (help) - ^ "Captain A.E. Sykes memoirs". Retrieved 6 February 2015.
- ^ Cooper, Lucy (15 May 2014). "Hobart's Hope and Anchor set to reopen after restoration". ABC News. Retrieved 6 February 2015.
- ^ "State Cinema" (PDF). Tasmanian Heritage Council. Retrieved 6 February 2024.
- ^ "Hobart pub restoration to dig deep". The Mercury. 15 May 2023. Retrieved 6 February 2024.
- ^ "Hope and Anchor Tavern heritage listing" (PDF). Tasmanian Heritage Council. Retrieved 6 February 2024.
- ^ "Hobart's Hope and Anchor and New Norfolk's Bush Inn in shouting match over 'oldest pub' title". News.com.au. 15 June 2014. Retrieved 6 February 2015.