HISTORY OF THE MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY BALL… TUN TAVERN dates back to 1685, when Samuel Carpenter, built a huge BREW HOUSE in Philadelphia. TUN is an old English word for cask, barrel or keg of beer. In addition to a reputation for good beer it was expanded to a Steak Club at Tun Tavern and many notable Americans drank and ate there. In 1756, Col. Benjamin Franklin organized the Pennsylvania Militia and recruited soldiers at Tun Tavern. Also, Washington, Jefferson and the Continental Congress met there as the American colonies prepared to fight for their independence from the English Crown. On November 10, 1775, the Continental Congress commissioned Samuel Nicholas to raise two Battalions of Marines. That very day, he set up shop at Tun Tavern. He appointed Robert Mullan, then the proprietor of Tun Tavern, the chief Marine Recruiter…serving, of course, from his business at Tun Tavern. Prospective recruits flocked to the tavern, lured by (1) cold beer and (2) the opportunity to serve in the new Corps. So, yes, the Marine Corps was born in Tun Tavern. Tun Tavern still lives today and Tun Tavern beer is still available throughout the Philadelphia area. For a more complete write-up, google “USMC Heritage Press International”.