Foster’s Tavern stands at 191 Cedar Springs Road, at the crossroads of what were once the Pickneyville and Georgia stagecoach routes—today’s Highways 56 and 295. Built by Anthony Foster beginning in 1801, the sturdy brick residence took over seven years to complete—a testament to craftsmanship, featuring hand‑molded bricks, tied chimneys, bowed mantels, hand‑carved woodwork, blown‑glass panes, cattle‑hair plaster, soapstone hearths, and original shutter hardware.

Around 1845, a fan‑lighted portico with columns was added, lending the building a graceful entrance, and sometime circa 1915, broad porches—or piazzas—were appended, enhancing its Southern charm. Recognized for its cultural and architectural significance, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 18, 1970, and is believed to be the oldest brick house in Spartanburg.

Through the years, it welcomed some notable travelers. John C. Calhoun, statesman and Vice President, frequented the tavern, staying in the southwest corner room on the second floor—which came to bear his name. Tradition held that other guests would vacate the room when he arrived. Bishop Francis Asbury, a key figure in establishing Methodism in South Carolina, also recorded stopping there in his 1810 diary.

Though now a private residence, Foster’s Tavern occasionally opens its doors during Historic Association tours, offering rare glimpses into its layered past. Supernaturally inclined tales whisper of gentle haunts: unexplained taps, footsteps, or even apparitions of stagecoaches traversing the rooms—a playful nod to its rich transportation heritage.