Circa 1766. This pre-Revolutionary War home opened for guests in 1766 as Tory Tavern and Inn, and during the war served as a fort and Colonial armory. The home was also used to lay the groundwork for the commercial use of AC current, when it was owned by Franklin Pope. Pope worked with Thomas Edison and General Electric founder William Stanley. If the history of this inn fails to impress, the rich interior should do the trick. Snuggle up in front of a roaring fire or relax on one of the wraparound porches. A full breakfast with fresh muffins and waffles is served in the dining room. Afternoon tea or wine are served daily. Each season brings new activity to the Great Barrington area, which is full of antique shops, orchards to visit, ski slopes and beautiful scenery. The nearby Hancock Shaker Village is a popular attraction as is Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony, the Berkshire Opera and Jacob's Pillow, a well-known acting company..