Hiram Evans and Elanor Humphrey Evans, builders, owners, and operators of the Bunker Hill Tavern in Fairhaven, were crucial members of the Underground Railroad and its operations. They provided a safe haven for runaway slaves and for their fearless conductor, a former slave himself, Gabriel "Old Gabe" Smith. The tavern also became synonymous with security, offering refuge to builders, post boys, or young men who delivered mail, and even 49ers on their way to strike it rich.