Red, White, and Brew
How much do you know about the history of American homebrewing? In this episode of Sidedoor, you'll meet the Smithsonian's first brewing historian, Theresa McCulla, and learn about the role of women, enslaved people, and immigrants in the country's complex—and often surprising—relationship with beer. You'll also meet a new wave of brewers who are working to craft some flavorful history of their own.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History is collecting, documenting, and preserving the history of beer in the United States. Check out food and drink history initiatives happening around the museum. There you can find blogs by our brewing historian Theresa McCulla, recorded panel discussions, and info on upcoming events. Want to make a beer using the same recipe as George Washington? Visit lostlagers.com to learn more about the historical reenactment work of Mike and Pete from this episode of the show!
Bonus Content
In this mini-episode, Sidedoor host Tony Cohn interviews Sam Kass, former Obama White House chef and one of the people responsible for the first beer ever known to be brewed at the White House.
Sam Kass did more than lead the home brewing project at the White House—he also was First Lady Michelle Obama’s Senior Policy Advisor for Healthy Food initiatives. Mr. Kass is vocal about the importance of a well balance diet. Check out his TED Talk about how the food we eat can impact more than just our stomachs.