Whiskey’s origin lies somewhere between 1,000 and 1,200 AD when traveling monks migrating across Europe, introduced the distillation practice into Scotland and Ireland. Because of the lack of vineyards in these countries, the monasteries turned to fermenting grain mashes and then distilling them into whiskey. For the next 400 years, whiskey spread throughout the Celtic countries. …
Author Archives: Michael Carver
There has always been a loophole for the elite.
Okay, I have been on a 21st Amendment stream today and this is clearly NOT an 18thg Century topic but it is germane to the Regimental Brewmeister because after the MAGA folks have outlawed abortion and reading, their next targets will be marijuana and alcohol. So, toughen up your self-publishing, weed growing, and brewing skills …
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Why did I learn to make beer, wine, and distilled spirits?
People come up to me constantly with this question: “How did you learn to brew?” The short answer – at home – is trivial. The question I want answer is “why did I learn to brew/distill/make wine?” Even though I was born decades after its repeal, I learned to brew as a direct result of …
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“Colonials were a despicable people — hardly worthy to call themselves the king’s subjects.”
The French and Indian War gave many British aristocrats their first view into what their American colonists were like. They were not impressed! War thrust people of diverse backgrounds and views into close contact, the French and Indian War was no exception. Britons and Americans learned first-hand that many of the commonalities that they believed …
On September 18, 1793, George Washington lays the cornerstone for the new US Capitol
The United States originally had no permanent capital city under the Articles of Confederation. Even when the US Constitution was ratified, it included no mention of a national capitol. Congress met in eight different cities including New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore before 1791. In 1790, Congress passed the Residence Act, establishing the permanent seat of …
America’s First True Disaster Area — New Madrid, MO
In the early hours of December 16, 1811, the residents of New Madrid, a Mississippi River town once part of the Louisiana Territory, rushed from their homes as the ground rolled beneath their feet. Trees were uprooted and thrown to the ground. Huge chasms opened in the earth, and the Mississippi River ran backward! Somewhere …
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Hire the Regimental Brewmeister for your Event or Site
Add excitement and authentic color to your special event, or create one for your site, with Philadelphia’s best Colonial Brewer and tradesman. Whether it is a reenactment, motion picture, a tavern night for a private event, or other endeavor, I can bring can bring a real sense of authenticity and fun to your event and …
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UPCOMING EVENT
Colonial Brewing during Fall FestColonial Pennsylvania Plantation3900 N. Sandy Flash Drive Ridley Creek State Park Newtown Square, PA 19073September 30, 202311:00am – 4:00pm Celebrate the fall season with Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation’s Fall Fest on Saturday, September 30! Enjoy colonial brewing by the Regimental Brewmeister demonstration, cider pressing, pottery making by Wallingford Potters Guild , music …
Early Meteorology — Predicting the Weather 18th Century Style: old wives tales and superstitions
In the 18th century, families relied on almanacs to help them make many weather and seasonal decisions, such as when they should plant their crops or travel. However, almanacs only gave a long-term idea of what the weather might be based on weather in the past. Furthermore, in an age where all travel, especially by …
Guns, Horse Races, and Beer – What could go Wrong? Herzlich Willkommen beim Oktoberfest!
Oktoberfest began on October 12, 1810, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig, married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The Bavarian royalty invited the citizens of Munich to attend the festivities, held on the fields in front of the city gates. This festival lasted for several days with free food and beer served to all. The celebration concluded with …
Michael Carver -- Historical Interpreter/Reenactor 