Ligonier Valley Historical Society is pleased to announce for the first time, “Hop Thru History.” A 21 and older event that will showcase the historical processes of 18th and 19th-century brewing. Historical interpreter Scott Henry will demonstrate brewing methods in early America. Joins us on Saturday, September 11th, from 11 am to 4 pm while we brew up some knowledge.
Patriots of the American Revolutionary War refused to purchase or drink beer from “across the pond.” This sudden need for American-made beer created a thriving economy in the Colonies and the newly formed United States. Founding Fathers Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Adams, and James Madison vigorously promoted the brewing industry in the colonies. George Washington operated a small brewery at Mount Vernon (his Virginia home). And during the Revolutionary War, he made sure his troops received a quart of beer each day. Beer has always played a pivotal role in American society, and it would have been a crucial part of daily life here at Compass Inn as innkeeper Robert Armor would have poured many a mug full of local ale.
“Hop Thru History” will also focus on the various proclivities of tavern life, exploring the libations, music, and gambling enjoyed by many early Americans. Sample a variety of unique hard ciders produced by Bella Terra Vineyard of Hunker. You might even want to take a 6-pack or a bottle of wine home with you. Participate in tavern games such as whist, the card game most commonly played in taverns and join in the fun of tabletop miniature stagecoach races as you place a bet on your favorite drivers and coaches. The winning bidder will take home 50% of the purse for that race.
Jeff Bell and Amy Clarke of Stringtyme, Bits and Pieces, a Civil War-era band, as well as Hazel Johnston and Ellaine Woodside of Riverside Players, now performing as H & E, will be on hand to perform lively and entertaining music that spans several genres throughout the day.
And lastly, a 50/50 raffle will be taking place throughout the day. All proceeds from “Hop Thru History” will go towards the Historical Society’s Save our Stagecoach project. Our 1830s style stagecoach requires much tender loving care, and this event will pave the way toward restoring this vital artifact. Compass Inn Museum is an authentically restored, early 1800s stagecoach inn on the original Philadelphia-Pittsburgh Turnpike. The restoration of our stagecoach will help keep the authenticity of this historic site.
General admission is $12 for adults, $11 for adults 62+, and free to members or active military members. Tickets can be purchased on-site, day of the event. For more information, please check out our website at compassinn.org/eventcalendar. For any questions, please contact us at info@compassinn.org or 724-238-6818. We hope to see you there!
