Our History

After selling his interests in the Beekman Arms in 1927, Wally Foster headed west to Nevada for several years. Upon his return, he purchased the old Village Tavern in 1933 and transformed it into what would become Foster’s Tavern.

​

The Village Tavern had long been a notable local establishment—famously a favorite watering hole of Colonel Jacob Ruppert, the owner of the New York Yankees and Ruppert Brewery.

​

In 1941, Foster completed a significant renovation of the property, introducing the equestrian theme that still defines the space today. A passionate horseman, Wally Foster gave riding lessons from the barn behind the Beekman Arms and served as a judge for the Dutchess County Fair harness races for more than 20 years.

​

In 1954, Foster sold the Coach House to Gertrude Sampson and her son, Howard Rust. The property changed hands again in 1965, when Bob Kirwood and his family assumed ownership. Following Bob’s passing, his daughter Phoebe continued the legacy.

​

In 2017, Foster’s entered a new chapter when it was acquired by Elijah Bender and Neil Bender, continuing its long-standing tradition as a cornerstone of the community.