In 1814 the Meux Brewery of London experienced the catastrophic failure of a 120,000 gallon beer aging tank. The tank released almost all the beer instantly and the surge burst the walls of the brewhouse. Spilling into the street the flood killed 8 people “..by drowning, poisoning, by fumes and drunkenness.” As beer flowed down …
Monthly Archives: November 2024
Beer Tax
On October 28, 1644 – Concerned citizens of New Amsterdam (New York City) protested a new tax on Beer. They pleaded that, “…this will probably have to be paid by the poor, who are unable to procure beer for the sick and wounded….” Beer Taxes were a constant complaint of Dutch New Yorkers. It and …
Don Antonio de Medoza
On December 12, 1543 Don Antonio de Medoza granted authorization to Alfonso de Herrera to build and operate a brewery in Mexico City. Truly a landmark event, it was the first brewery in all of the America’s. Want to have the Regimental Brewmeister at your site or event? You can hire me. https://colonialbrewer.com/yes-you-can-hire-me-for-your-event-or-site/
Dangers of “Cold Small Beer”
Next time you think about cracking a can of Budweiser, consider this tale from 1724. An unusual grave marker located in Winchester Cathedral, UK. A memorial to Thomas Thetcher who died on the 12th of May in 1764, in part it reads that he “…died of a violent fever contracted by drinking Small Beer when …
Hot Toddy
The traditional hot toddy formula is simple: Start with a hot cup of tea, add lemon and honey, then a bit of whiskey. This is certain to make even the worst cold feel just a little better. The toddy is believed to have been invented in Scotland sometime in the eighteenth century. It was a …
UPCOMING EVENT — Colonial Brewing in Lewes
Shipcarpenter Street110 Shipcarpenter StreetLewes, DE 19975 United States10:00 am – 4:00pm In the 18th Century, beer was critical to survival, even at sea. Join the Regimental Brewer for this, the last brewing session in 2024, in Lewes DE as we replenish ships stores. Samples of 18th Century beer will be provided and we will weave in a few …
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Switchel
Switchel or “Haymaker’s Punch” is a drink made of water mixed with vinegar, and often seasoned with spices like ginger. It is usually sweetened with molasses or brown sugar. Switchel originated in New England, and it became a popular summer drink in the American Colonies in the late 17th century. By the 19th century, it …
Historical Tidbits — Congress adjourns to Baltimore
When reenacting or acting as a historical interpreter, its good to have a few historical dates and stories to share. This series will publish a few. December 12, 1776 Congress adjourns to Baltimore In mid-December 1776 Congress decided to move to Baltimore to escape capture by the advancing British. The time in Baltimore was a …
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Traitors and Bigots are not Welcome!
Given the recent political disaster and the election of the most unAmerican man in the country, I feel it is important to remind people that while we have a traitor in the White House, we do not have to give up our rights to free speech and association. While I respect people’s political opinions, I …
UPCOMING EVENT — Colonial Brewing in Lewes
Shipcarpenter Street110 Shipcarpenter StreetLewes, DE 19975 United States10:00 am – 4:00pm In the 18th Century, beer was critical to survival, even at sea. Join the Regimental Brewer for this, the last brewing session in 2024, in Lewes DE as we replenish ships stores. Samples of 18th Century beer will be provided and we will weave in a few …
Continue reading “UPCOMING EVENT — Colonial Brewing in Lewes”
Michael Carver -- Historical Interpreter/Reenactor 