Early settlers, including English and Dutch colonists in Massachusetts, Virginia, and New Amsterdam, came from beer-centric cultures and brought their brewing traditions with them. Their provisions for the sea voyage included beer, an essential item for sustenance and health during long trips. In the New World, these settlers encountered Native American communities in the southwestern regions, who brewed a form of beer from fermented maize, reflecting a parallel tradition of fermentation.
The first recorded instance of beer brewing by American colonists occurred at Sir Walter Raleigh’s Roanoke colony in 1587. Despite their brewing efforts, the high demand for beer led settlers to continually request shipments from England, highlighting the beverage's importance. This demand was so significant that in 1609, the colonists placed America’s first help-wanted ad in a London newspaper, seeking brewers to bolster their beer supply.
Adrian Block and Hans Christensen established the first brewery in British North America in 1612 in New Amsterdam, marking the beginning of a long tradition of brewing in America. Breweries were among the first businesses established in the New World, underlining the essential nature of beer in daily life. By 1685, Philadelphia had its first brewery, and by 1793, it had become the brewing center of the colonies.
The early 19th century saw significant growth in the American brewing industry. By 1810, 132 breweries produced 185,000 barrels of beer. The influx of European immigrants, especially Germans, further boosted this industry. Jacob Best, a German immigrant, established the Best Brewery in Milwaukee in 1844, contributing to the burgeoning beer landscape in America.
However, the temperance movement gained momentum by 1916, culminating in the passage of a constitutional amendment in December 1917 that prohibited the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages. This amendment forced 1,568 breweries out of business. Some brewers pivoted to producing soft drinks, malt syrup, and dairy products, but many faced significant financial losses and closure.
When Prohibition was repealed in December 1933, the brewing industry struggled to recover. Only about half of the pre-Prohibition breweries resumed operations, signaling a permanent shift in the American brewing landscape. Despite these challenges, beer’s historical significance and its role in American society endured, leading to the vibrant and diverse beer culture seen in the United States today.
Beer: A Historical Journey from Europe to America
