Hungerford Tavern was most likely operated by the tavern owner's African American slaves. A meeting place for tobacco planters and lawyers to socialize and conduct business, it was a center of social activity. African American slaves traveling with their masters were expected to care for them if they became too rowdy or drunk at taverns. When travelers stayed overnight, their slaves could exchange news of family members and relatives with the tavern owner's slaves. While the tavern served as the courthouse, a small jail was attached to the building. Slaves caught trying to escape were held there awaiting punishment and return to bondage.