BONUS: History On Tap - Spirits & Taverns in the Colonial & Revolutionary Eras

It was a dose of courage for troops. It was a substitution for unclean water, a form of payment, and daily rations. They also used it as an incentive for taking on difficult tasks.

In this episode of Revolution Revisited™, host Maggie Creech explores the vital role that taverns and spirits played in both colonial and revolutionary Virginia. Featuring insights from Annie Tobey, a writer and editor, and Barry Haneberg, a distiller and historian, the discussion covers the evolution of alcohol production, the gendered aspects of brewing, and the central place of taverns in social and political life.

Inside the Episode:

The episode delves into the traditional and practical uses of alcohol in colonial Virginia, the role of women in brewing and distillation, and how the revolutionary war accelerated the transition of alcohol production from domestic to industrial spheres. Taverns are examined as social and political hubs where community life flourished and revolutionary ideas were exchanged. Key topics include colonial regulations, the impact of British taxes on molasses and rum, and the significant role of spirits as rations, incentives, and morale boosters for Revolutionary soldiers. The episode concludes by emphasizing the central role of taverns in the communal and political life of the colonies.

Guests:

• Annie Tobey, Writer and Editor
• Barry Haneberg, Distiller & Historian

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 00:39 Colonial Taverns: The Heart of Community Life
• 01:50 Brewing and Distillation in Early America
• 04:49 The Role of Women in Brewing and Taverns
• 06:05 Taverns as Revolutionary Hubs
• 09:00 Colonial Regulations and Tavern Culture
• 14:45 The Importance of Rum and the Molasses Act
• 19:35 Alcohol in the Continental Army
• 21:28 Conclusion and Credits

Revolution Revisited™ is produced by the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of William & Karen Fralin. © 2025 Virginia Museum of History & Culture.