Tun Tavern ignites conflict as two groups compete to recreate the birthplace of the Marine Corps.

As the U.S. Marine Corps approaches its 250th anniversary, a notable revival of interest in its historical roots is underway with competing projects aimed at recreating the iconic Tun Tavern, the site recognized as the Corps’ original recruiting station.

In April 2024, a nonprofit organization—composed of Marine veterans and four local Philadelphia groups—secured a parking lot located on Second Street, south of Market, in Old City. This group, known as the Tun Legacy Foundation, announced plans to construct a three-story restaurant and museum aptly named “The Tun.” Additionally, they have filed for a trademark on the name to further establish their connection to this historic locale.

Two months later, Montgomery Dahm, a retired Marine who has managed the Tun Tavern brewpub in Atlantic City since 1998, initiated legal action in U.S. District Court against the nonprofit group. Dahm, who has held the “Tun Tavern” trademark since 2013, aims to prevent the nonprofit from utilizing the “Tun” name as their project progresses. This legal dispute remains active.

In a recent development in this unfolding story, Dahm announced his intention to acquire the Lucha Cartel restaurant located at 207 Chestnut Street, a mere 400 feet from the nonprofit’s chosen site. Dahm plans to invest between .5 million and million into this venture, eyeing a soft opening on November 10, which coincides with the Marine Corps’ momentous anniversary. His initial efforts will focus on renovating the facade, with future plans to add at least two additional floors to accommodate community events and meetings, effectively transforming the building into a living museum.

In promoting his vision, Dahm is establishing a nonprofit called Friends of Tun Tavern, which will direct part of its revenue to benefit veterans’ organizations. He has also indicated that his revived Tun Tavern will support the Freemasons, a fraternal organization that, like the tavern, shares historical ties to early American society.

The Tun Legacy Foundation, with architectural plans in the works, reports that it has successfully raised approximately million and is in search of further financing to commence construction. Board member Craig Mills, himself a retired Marine, mentioned that construction documentation is complete but declined to comment on the ongoing legal matters.

Historically, the original Tun Tavern was constructed in the late 1690s at a site near Water Street and Tun Alley, now located beneath Interstate 95. All that remains of this significant landmark is a historical marker on Front Street, a mere few blocks distant from the proposed revival sites.

The uncertainty surrounding this competition is underscored by differing visions for the new establishments. Dahm’s proposed design features a Colonial Revival style, while the nonprofit’s project is more aligned with Georgian Colonial architecture. As both sides prepare for their respective endeavors, the upcoming anniversary of the Marine Corps stands as a poignant backdrop to this spirited revival and legal contention. The future of Tun Tavern’s legacy is being reshaped, not only as a tribute to the Corps but also as a testament to the enduring connections within the community and its history.

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