Circa 1775. For more than 200 years, this Federalist-style gable-roofed farmhouse, located on the original stagecoach route, provided a comfortable refuge for many an overnight guest, Henry David Thoreau among them. Considered the oldest inn in New Hampshire, the Birchwood is in the National Register of Historic Places. Although it has operated as an inn, tavern and dining establishment since it was built, the Birchwood has also housed the Temple post office, a small general store and most recently, an antique shop. One of the most noted features of the inn is the fresco mural in the dining room painted by 19th-century artist Rufus Porter. Period antiques, a grand piano and cozy fireplaces add to the ambiance. A full breakfast features the innkeeper's specialties of freshly-baked muffins and homemade jams. Dinner, served by candlelight, is made-to-order and designed to please a variety of palates. Summer theater, Monadnock Music Series, horseback riding and hay rides are nearby.