THE DRUNKARD'S PROGRESS
From the First Glass to the Grave!
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Our Drunkard's Progress mural is a reproduction of a famous Currier & Ives propaganda print against alcohol. Currier & Ives produced at least thirty prints that referenced the Temperance Movement, an organized effort to encourage moderation or abstinence from alcoholic beverages in the early 1800s.
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When Lee Guercio Sr., (father of your current Innkeeper Alison), purchased the Tavern in 1946, the back wall next to our bar was empty. He went on a quest for the most appropriate work of art to fill that wall.
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At that time, Nancy and Myron Affleck of nearby Groton, MA. were regular patrons. The couple (grandparents of Ben and Casey Affleck), participated in community theater with Lee's wife Mary and other locals. The Innkeepers knew that the Afflecks were artists, and during an animated conversation over cocktails one night, it was decided that they would recreate their version of the famous "Drunkard's Progress" on our Tavern wall.
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Nancy Affleck painted the mural, while Myron completed the lettering. The duo signed their work in the bottom right corner including the year, 1948.
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A rendering of the mural is available for sale from our gift shop at the restaurant or online. It is a popular item for home bars and college dorms everywhere.
To purchase the poster version, stop by our front desk, or purchase
yours online HERE.
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