American taverns were once the center of a community. One could walk into a tavern and order an alcoholic beverage, eat a meal, get a room for the evening, and pick up mail. They were as integral to American society in the 18th and 19th century as the blacksmith or farm. Today's taverns still serve alcohol and food, and the best of the bunch remain the centers of their respective communities.Take the Dark Horse Tavern in Dewitt, for example. A recent Thursday evening visit found the bar and dining area full of guests, and most guests were engaged in first-name basis conversations with the staff, creating the appearance of a loyal following of customers that frequent the tavern regularly. We checked in with the bartender, as instructed by the sign on the door, who invited us to seat ourselves. Within 30 minutes of arriving, a small crowd had gathered in the bar area to wait for a table.