Sign for the Chequers Inn

Image: © Maigheach-gheal Taken: 2 Apr 2011

An ancient tavern sign and tavern name which was probably brought to Britain by the Romans. Evidence from Pompeii suggests that it was already in use there, perhaps referring to a game such as draughts played on the premises. The sign was later associated with a money-table, and indeed the word 'exchequer' originally meant a kind of chessboard. Some inns may have used the sign to indicate that they were ready to change money or act as bankers in some way. There is an heraldic connection that the Fitzwarrens, coat of arms showed chequered squares, and they had the privilege of licensing alehouses in the reign of Edward IV. The sign shown here shows a racing car passing the chequered flag. For a wider view of the inn Image

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